The 24 game for the classroom.
A quick mental maths starter with one target, four numbers and plenty of different routes.
Try it as a class
Put four numbers on the board. Give everyone the same target: 24. Every number must be used exactly once. Ask pupils to show their route, not just the answer.
Useful prompts
Can you find a second solution? Can you solve it without division? Which pair would you combine first, and why? Can someone explain a different route?
Printable practice sheet
These are public practice puzzles for the classroom. Give pupils space to write one route to 24 for each set.
Use the daily challenge
Make24 gives everyone the same new puzzle each day, so a class, tutor group or family can work on the same challenge.
A five-minute classroom routine
- Display one number set without showing a solution.
- Give pupils quiet thinking time before accepting answers.
- Ask for the calculation in steps, so every number use is visible.
- Compare two valid routes and discuss which intermediate numbers made them work.
Ways to extend the task
Invite pupils to find a second route, explain why a tempting first move fails, or create their own four-number puzzle and verify that it has a solution. The discussion builds number sense as well as speed.
One puzzle, every day.
Time your solve, keep your streak and compare through Game Center.
