Square and Even

Topics: Starter | Number | Problem Solving

• K. Rybarczyk, Knightswood Secondary
•  
• With younger pupils, it is a good idea to begin with a reminder about square numbers. Also some practice with squares and square roots on a calculator.
  Next, give a simplified 4 digit version of the same problem. The digits 1, 4, 6, 8 work well.
  Now give the 9 digit version as in this starter.
  
  [Transum: Excellent idea KR. Here is the simplified version that you suggested.]
• Ole And Daisy, Beckley School
•  
• We love this website and we love this starter. It was very challenging and fun.
• Michael Guthrie, Drumkeen, Co Donegal
•  
• There is another way of doing this
  144 12 squared
  256 16 squared
  484 22 squared.
• KentuckyJohn, Ramen School
•  
• Very good game.
• Transum,
•  
• One way to solve this problem using technology is to use a spreadsheet or a graphic display calculator to generate a list of all 22 three digit square numbers. Manually eliminate those that contain a 0, 3, 7 or 9 as those digits aren’t available. Only one of the 8 square numbers left is comprised of only even digits so this number must go in the bottom row of the grid. Eliminate square numbers from the list that can not be made using the remaining six digits. It is now quite easy to find all of the possibilities. Teachers, tutors and parents can see all of the possible answers below.
• Mrs K, Maths Cadets
•  
• We did this with trial and error. It was a good opportunity to our calculators. Good activity.

How did you use this starter? Can you suggest how teachers could present or develop this resource? Do you have any comments? It is always useful to receive feedback and helps make this free resource even more useful for Maths teachers anywhere in the world.
Click here to enter your comments.

Previous Day | This starter is for 10 February | Next Day