This activity gives the pupils experience in starting very simple investigations. There is a possibility of prediction, counting, addition and multiplication.

This investigation could be used in small groups to allow pupils time to play with the squares and count with no pressure. They should be encouraged to discuss their ideas between themselves. Plenty of squared paper will be needed.

What numbers have you found?

What is special about those numbers?

What do you notice?

Could you find the difference between two numbers that follow each other?

Have you drawn any other squares?

How many little squares do you think there will be in the next big square?

Learners can explore other shapes that can be enlarged in a similar way and explore by counting.