Why do this
problem?
This problem would be a good one when doing calculations with
fractions. It also requires logical thinking and organising of
results. Different strategies and approaches can be taken:
knowledge of addition, or multiples, or an understanding of
fractions can be used to arrive at a solution.
Key questions
What do you think is a good way to start?
How big was Katie's balloon after the second (third, fourth
etc.) puff?
How big was Will's balloon after the second (third, fourth
etc.) puff?
Possible extension
Learners could make up a similar
problem of their own for a friend to try.
Possible support
Breaking the problem down step by step
will help learners reach a solution. It might be useful to have
each subsequent piece of information written on a separate card
so that they can be given to children when ready, rather than
presenting all the information at once.