Largest Product

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Begin with the number 5

Write down all the ways it can be split into smaller numbers that add up to 5.

For example:

  • 1 + 1 + 1 + 2 = 5
  • 2 + 3 = 5
  • 3 + 1 + 1 = 5
  • etc.

Which set of smaller numbers gives the largest product?

For example:

  • 1 × 1 × 1 × 2 = ?
  • 2 × 3 = ?
  • 3 × 1 × 1 = ?
  • etc.

The largest product is 6,

Now begin with 16.

Write down all the ways it can be split into smaller numbers that add up to 16.

Which set of smaller numbers gives the largest product?

Type the numbers here separated by commas:

Check

Try again

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The Largest Product Is:

 





Transum.org

This web site contains over a thousand free mathematical activities for teachers and pupils. Click here to go to the main page which links to all of the resources available.

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Mathematicians are not the people who find Maths easy; they are the people who enjoy how mystifying, puzzling and hard it is. Are you a mathematician?

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Featured Activity

Beat The Clock

Beat The Clock

It is a race against the clock to answer 30 mental arithmetic questions. There are nine levels to choose from to suit pupils of different abilities.

Numeracy

"Numeracy is a proficiency which is developed mainly in Mathematics but also in other subjects. It is more than an ability to do basic arithmetic. It involves developing confidence and competence with numbers and measures. It requires understanding of the number system, a repertoire of mathematical techniques, and an inclination and ability to solve quantitative or spatial problems in a range of contexts. Numeracy also demands understanding of the ways in which data are gathered by counting and measuring, and presented in graphs, diagrams, charts and tables."

Secondary National Strategy, Mathematics at key stage 3

Go Maths

Learning and understanding Mathematics, at every level, requires learner engagement. Mathematics is not a spectator sport. Sometimes traditional teaching fails to actively involve students. One way to address the problem is through the use of interactive activities and this web site provides many of those. The Go Maths main page links to more activities designed for students in upper Secondary/High school.

Teachers

If you found this activity useful don't forget to record it in your scheme of work or learning management system. The short URL, ready to be copied and pasted, is as follows:

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