Reasoning/Problem Solvingin Year 4

Problem solving: finding the missing digits in 4-digit numbers. Tricky!

Problem solving: finding the values of missing counters. Logical thinking and careful work needed here!

Reasoning about numbers on a number line and rounding numbers.

More reasoning about number and place value.

Not only do the questions have to be answered, but explanations given. These pages really show how well children understand what they are doing.

More written explanations on which operation to use and whether the question should be done mentally or on paper.

Lots of questions, most of which can be done mentally. The important thing is to explain how they were tackled.

Decide which operation is needed (add, subtract, multiply, divide) and whether a calculator, or pencil and paper are needed, or whether it can be done, 'in your head'.

Here are some problems written in words. Fairly straightforward as they require just one mathematical step to work out the answer

Some word problems that need at least two steps to find the answer. This makes them much harder, so careful thinking is needed.

5 pages of word problems, all involving money. Some are suitable for calculator work as they are specially written to make the process the most important factor: it is no use having a calculator if you don't know what calculation to carry out!

A range of number and money problems, typical of those found in KS2 test papers.

A range of number and money problems, typical of those found in KS2 test papers.

More number and money problems, typical of those found in KS2 test papers.

Tricky word problems involving time and money.

More word problems; this time on measurement of length, mass and capacity. These really test children's understanding of when to use addition, subtraction, multiplication or division to solve a problem.

Time problems are especially tricky, especially when finding lengths of time that cross the hour boundary. A good knowledge of the number of days in each month is also needed.

Not many problems on a page, but there is an awful lot within each question. Each is a mini investigation, which can be explored in depth.

Number patterns, remainders, number machines and much more in this mixed selection of problems.

Working out the missing value.

More working out missing values.

Using the instructions on the packet what is the maximum number of bulbs that can be grown in the garden?

Using the instructions on the packet what is the maximum number of seeds that can be sown in the garden?

Using the instructions on the packet what is the maximum number of vegetables that can be grown in the garden?

An addition challenge suitable for year 4 on.

The fish are all called numbers. Can you work out their names by solving the clues?

Making rules for sequences is an early step towards understanding algebra, and an important part of Year 5 maths. More 'How would you...?' type questions as well.

How many different three course meals can Sam choose?

Investigate patterns made by placing consecutive numbers in a number square.

A great little investigation which has plenty of extension possibilities.

Fun addition investigation using the date: 22.02.2022.

Some thoughts on how important this area of maths is.