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Countdown Fractions

Age 11 to 16
Challenge Level Yellow star
Secondary curriculum
  • Problem
  • Getting Started
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Countdown Fractions printable sheet
Countdown Fractions printable sheet - cards


If you enjoy playing Countdown you might also enjoy playing this more challenging version with fractions.

The challenge is to use the numbers and fractions available, and the four standard operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) to hit the target.

Start by choosing any six cards. The top row always contains the numbers 1, 2, 3 and 4 and the bottom row contains a range of fractions. Alternatively you could click on "Quickstart". Then click on "Generate new target" and the computer will choose a target.

You can only use each card once in your solution, and it is always possible to find a solution without needing to use all the cards.
 

Once you've had a go, click on "Show solutions" to show some possible ways in which the target can be reached.

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The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.

NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.

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