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Age 11 to 14
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Why do this problem?

This problem encourages students to think of different ways in which it can be solved. This can be done using trial and improvement, but preferably, and more efficiently, by creating some linear equations. The very fact that the six men have names beginning with the letters A to F should make an algebraic solution stand out!

Possible approach

You could introduce the problem to the class, and give them a little bit of time to work in pairs to suggest ways it could be tackled. Then come together again to share possible strategies and discuss any difficulties that might arise.
Once students have had a chance to develop clear strategies for working on the problem allow them some time in pairs to develop and discuss their answers.
Allow some time for feed back at the end and to explore and discuss both learners' methods and their answers.

Key questions

Have you thought of making a table to show how long each man worked?
Have you thought of making some algebraic equations from the information given?
Is your strategy the quickest way to work out the answer?

Possible extension

Learners could follow-up with this harder problem, How Many Miles to Go?

Possible support

Suggest making a table and tackle the problem using trial and improvement. 
 

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Always the Same

Arrange the numbers 1 to 16 into a 4 by 4 array. Choose a number. Cross out the numbers on the same row and column. Repeat this process. Add up you four numbers. Why do they always add up to 34?

Fibs

The well known Fibonacci sequence is 1 ,1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21.... How many Fibonacci sequences can you find containing the number 196 as one of the terms?

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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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