garethmetcalfe Maths ideas

Logic Squares: next move

Logic Squares is my favourite maths app: it helps children to learn that the = sign means ‘same as’ rather than ‘makes’ and it gets children using number facts with flexibility. Click here for more details and examples.

Here’s a free resource, helping to break down the thinking behind completing a level. I hope you’ll find it a thought-provoking activity whether or not you use the app.

You will find 10 part-finished example Logic Squares grids. On each grid one square is highlighted: children will then discuss and explain which number they would put in the highlighted square.

The selected squares are the key ones to completing each level – which of the remaining numbers can be used?
Can it be done in different ways? Children could then complete the level using the available numbers at the bottom.

Logic Squares, made by Alan Peat ltd, is available for iPad on the App Store.

garethmetcalfe Maths ideas

The Learning in Logic Squares

There are lots of maths apps on the market: most are visually appealing and allow children to rehearse key mental maths skills. What more does Logic Squares have to offer? This blog gives six reasons why Logic Squares takes children’s learning to a deeper level.

Accessible challenge
Accessible 4
At the start of each level, the player can select ‘kick-start’. This will put one of the numbers into position, giving a significant clue to help the player to unlock the level. In doing so, the levels are made more accessible for children of different abilities. There are a range of solutions for each level.

Useful feedbackIMG_1719
When the player clicks ‘check’ any lines that are incorrect are highlighted in red. Then the player can re-position the numbers having seen their mistake(s), allowing them to address any misunderstandings in a non-threatening way.

High thresholdchallenge 2
By the end the levels will stretch even the most able primary child. Take level 18 (using 1-20). Can the children reason as to why the number positioned has to be a 2? Children have to identify the lines with fewer possible solutions and learn to complete these parts first.

Supports understanding of = and > signs
equality
Children’s understanding of = as ‘same as’ rather than ‘makes’ will be secured. The example on the left shows how the common structure ___ – ___ = ___  is reversed to ___ = ___ – ___. The grids from level 16 onwards are 7×7, allowing for two numbers either side of the equals sign. < and > sings are used throughout.

Subtraction as difference
subtraction
Let’s assume the children start level 11 by filling in the bottom line. They may complete a vertical line using the most straightforward calculation that comes to mind (4-3=1). Soon they’ll realise that they need to be more selective in their use of the smaller numbers; larger numbers can be used in subtractions, considering differences.

Understand how to manipulate numbers in calculations
IMG_1711On level 12 the player has got to this point and has realised they are unable to complete the last line. Which is the first line to try to alter?The vertical line on the right hand side? Unlikely to work. The middle horizontal line? The 6 and 5 aren’t interchangeable; also, neither number could be used in the position of the 1. But switch around the 4 and the 2 and we have a solution!

So that’s how Logic Squares gets children playing with numbers and exploring key mathematical concepts in a fun, non-threatening way.

To see level 10 in detail, read the blog:
https://garethmetcalfe.wordpress.com/2015/08/31/logic-squares-the-strategy-maths-app/

Logic Squares for the iPad is on sale in English:
garethmetcalfe Maths ideas

Logic Squares: the strategy maths app

Logic squares is a maths app soon to be released by Alan Peat Ltd. Players will learn to manipulate numbers within calculations, becoming increasingly strategic in their thinking as the levels progress in difficulty.

The rules are simple: fill the gaps using the numbers provided to make each line correct. To make the levels more accessible, a ‘kick-start’ button can be pressed at the start of every round which positions a number automatically. Mistakes are highlighted in red when the player clicks ‘check’, directing the player to any errors so amendments can be made.

Levels progress from more straightforward:

To the very challenging:

Let’s look at level 10 in detail and the kind of thought processes that the children will need to go through to answer it successfully.

Firstly (and crucially) children need to think carefully about their starting point. If they start with the addition and subtraction lines and ‘fill in’ the multiplication line last, they are unlikely to find a solution as there are far fewer ways to complete the multiplication. And which multiplication to choose: 3×2? 5×2? When you look at the right hand column (__+__), probably the one with the higher product. Let’s assume that the player’s started with 5×2=10:

So a logical next step would be to find two numbers that add to make 10. Which combination of numbers is best? And which way around should the numbers be positioned? Consider this:

The 4 can be made with the 1 and the 3, but with the larger number (the 6) being on the top line and all the smaller numbers used up, it’s not possible to make the top line correct. An adjustment’s needed. The player may realise that it’s easier if the larger number’s used as the answer to the addition rather than the subtraction. Say 7 and 3 are tried next:

Now the player’s in a position to find a solution (there are multiple solutions for all the levels):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’m going to produce videos demonstrating the process of completing 3 of the levels that teachers can show to children, to make the learning from the tasks explicit. However, the thing that I love about Logic Squares is that it’s in the (highly addictive) process of trial and error, seeing links and spotting mistakes, being frustrated then finding a way to overcome, that the majority of the learning takes place. By the time the children get to level 25, they’ll have honed a wide range of crucial mathematical skills and ideas. Enjoy!