Do you ever want something a bit different from the normal math fact or number sense practice? These fun math puzzles are just what you need! In this post, I will be giving you all the details about how you can get ten (yes, TEN!) sets of math puzzles to use with your students all year!
About the Math Puzzles
To solve the problems, the students use their knowledge of multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction. Each set varies but you will find a little of each operation (and a lot of multiplication) in each set.
As you can see from the bottom left example in the picture above, the students would determine that the glue image is equal to 7 because 7 + 7 + 7 = 21. Then they would use division to determine that scissors is 8 because 88 divided by 8 is equal to 11. Finally, they would use the value of the glue and the value of the scissors to solve the final equation (7 x 8 + 8 = 64).
Scroll down for more detailed instructions that you can download as well.
Benefits of Using the Math Puzzles
- The puzzles help build number sense as students use their knowledge of the operations to determine the value of the images and solve the problems.
- They help students practice multiplication and division math facts.
- They are engaging and the students love them.
- They are a great way to get students to prove and defend their answers in a nonthreatening way.
Using the Math Puzzles in the Classroom
- Project one a puzzle a day as a math warm up or even a number talk.
- Use the math puzzles in a math center. This would be the perfect alternative to flashcards for math facts mastery.
- Use as “Fun” homework. These are only available in color but could easily be printed in black and white and sent home with the students.
- Use as a “Soft Start Morning Work” option. If you use soft starts, you can have these puzzles be an option or choice for the students.
Which Math Puzzles Are Included?
Each set includes 16 puzzles, a recording sheet, and answer key. These are the sets included in the download:
- Back to School
- Fall/Autumn
- Halloween
- Thanksgiving
- Christmas
- Winter
- Valentine’s Day
- St. Patrick’s Day
- Spring
- Summer
How Can I Get the Math Puzzles for FREE?
Simply click below and then enter your email address in the pop-up form. The files will be sent right to your email! If you are already on my email list, you can sign up again and will not receive duplicate emails from me. 🙂
Instructions for the Math Puzzles
The students use what they know about multiplication, addition, subtraction, and division to solve for the missing numbers.
For example, using problem A of the Christmas puzzles:
- reindeer x reindeer = 9, so the reindeer would have to be 3 because 3 x 3 = 9.
- reindeer + bulb = 12, we already know that the reindeer = 3, so the bulb would have to be 9 because 3 + 9 = 12.
- bulb / reindeer + reindeer, the answer is 9 / 3 + 3 = 6
Those are the answers shown on the answer key: 3 (reindeer), 9 (bulb), 6 (answer to the final problem)
Download these instructions
What More Seasonal/Holiday Ideas?
Click on the links below to see round up posts of my favorite resources, activities, and freebies.
Fall Activities for Upper Elementary
Halloween Activities for Upper Elementary
Thanksgiving Activities for Upper Elementary
Christmas Activities for Upper Elementary
Winter Activities for Upper Elementary
Valentine’s Day Activities for Upper Elementary
St. Patrick’s Day Activities for Upper Elementary
Spring Activities for Upper Elementary
Want More Math Center Freebies?
Click here to see my favorite math centers and download free samples for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade.
What do you think about these math puzzles? Do you think this is something your student will enjoy? Let me know in the comments!
Jennifer, my students were always excited when I would bring out the math puzzles you did this past school year! Thank you this whole year set ?
These are amazing!! So excited to use them this year! Thank you!!
Do you have these for first grade? Donna Brown
My entire class loved to do these during distance learning. It was one of the few assignments I knew everyone would turn in. I can’t wait to use them year around.
I am looking for some fun puzzles for youth that are at risk in their communities.
Thanks.
Sherri
Excited to push my students thinking and create more struggle.