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Finding just-right resources for all of our learners is a full time job, especially for my highest group of mathematicians. These are the friends that are working a grade-level (or two) above 1st grade and the ones who sometimes struggle to show growth on District Assessment programs (STAR, MAP, etc.).
Finding just-right resources for all of our learners is a full time job, especially for my highest group of mathematicians. These are the friends that are working a grade-level (or two) above 1st grade and the ones who sometimes struggle to show growth on District Assessment programs (STAR, MAP, etc.). As teachers, our initial reaction is to say – “Hey, these friends know the first grade content. I’m time to move on.” – only to repeatedly hear from math coaches and administrators – “Don’t teach another grade level’s math content!” So, the question for the ages – if I can’t teach 2nd or 3rd grade content, how do I challenge these students and move them forward?
In this Math Puzzlers Set #3, you’ll find PRINT AND DIGITAL versions of 18 addition/subtraction brain teasers (and teacher answer keys) that require students to find which two numbers that can be swapped so both jars (or equations) are equal to one another. When working with these problems, students are intertwining their understandings of addition, subtraction, missing addends, and commutative property. This 3rd set of Math Puzzlers is more difficult than my Math Puzzlers Set #1 and my Math Puzzlers Set #2.
In this resource, you’ll find
**These shape equations can be purchased in a discounted BUNDLE of all 4 of my Math Puzzlers here.**
Accomplishing difficult tasks allows students to develop a mindset of growth and resilience. Students know it’s okay to make mistakes, try the wrong number, or unknowingly defend the wrong number. The sense of accomplishment when students complete a puzzle task (sometimes taking up to 15-20 minutes) is significant. Now, my highest mathematicians beg for these cards and love the challenge. Our motto has quickly become, “Our brains love to do hard things.”
How Do I Use These for a Whole-Class Number Talk?
Using Google Slides you are able to display these prompts. If you download the Page Marker Google Chrome extension, you can write directly on the slides (no log-in required) in different colors. Using an Interactive Whiteboard, you can use the markers or your finger to write on top of these images/slides. If using a touch-screen Chromebook or iPad, you can use a stylus to record students’ thinking. Should you want to rock a low-technology option, display the prompt on a screen and record student thinking on anchor chart paper, a white board, or an easel.
Can I share this with students?
Yes! On a password-protected site or platform, you are welcome to share this digital file with students and families. That might look like a Google Classroom, a password-protected website, a password-protected Flip Grid, See Saw, etc. Due to copyright, the digital file may not be placed on a class website that is accessible to the general public. Have questions? Ask a Q&A on Teachers Pay Teachers, and I’m happy to answer!
With what programs is this compatible?
This digital file is able to work with GoogleTM Slides, Google Drive, SeeSaw. Microsoft OneDriveTM, or Pic Collage. Then students may submit their thinking digitally. For instructions on how to use this resource with Microsoft OneDriveTM and SeeSaw visit bit.ly/digitalinstructions
Can I share just one or a few puzzles at a time?
After you make a copy of this digital file and add it to your Google Drive, you are free to manipulate the slides. You can add/delete/or move around the pages to meet the needs of your students. Only want to share one puzzle? Perfect. Delete the other slides and share the file via Google Classroom for your students. Then, when you want the rest of the tasks, you can come back to this link and reopen the original file.
Catherine, The Brown-Bag Teacher
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Caroline Blackwood –
A great resource – My kids loved it.
kimi bayles –
Great way to challenge my high math kiddos. They were loving it.
Marion S. –
Excellent enrichment for first graders.
Simply Sassy in Second –
I used this in 2nd grade with my gifted math students. They love the challenge of it and are very engaged in the activity.
Stephanie Williams –
My students love these!
jennifer H. –
This is a fun and engaging activity.
Emily D. –
This is a great resource but there was an error on card J. Always frustrating when you buy something “ready to use” and then there is an error. Caused chaos!
Erin Lieblong –
Great digital resource for offsite learners.
Kristina B. –
I use this resource in my morning slides as a daily brain challenge for the students. Students thought it was a fun game.
Jill F. –
I plan on using this if and when we go to online learning.
Kathleen A. –
Looks great. I am including these in my distance learning kits. Thank you!
The Spectacular VA Apple –
I used this resource during summer session and my students loved it! They were challenged and engaged!
Allison A. –
These were great ways to start our math zoom lessons
Mayra B. –
A great resource for distant learning!
Shelly B. –
I love all of your resources.
AZteacher49 –
Was helpful and easy for distance learning.