Mobile puzzles are a type of math puzzle that require each side of the puzzle to be balanced. They are a great way to challenge high ability students to use problem solving skills to create equal equations.
What are Mobile Balance Puzzles?
Imagine a scale that must be balanced. Each side must be equal. If a side is divided into two or more parts, those numbers must also be equal. If there is a number at the top, the total value of the puzzle must add up to that number.
To solve the puzzle you may use the number at the top to determine the value of each side. If the mobile puzzle has two sides, divide the number at the top by two to get the value of each side. If the puzzle has three sides, divide the number at the top by three to get the value of each side.
If there is not a number at the top, you will see a value for one or more of the shapes. You can use this number to determine the value of the other shapes when you remember that each side must be equal.
In this example, I know that the value of all of the symbols is 48. Since there are two sides I can determine that each side equals 24. The side on the left is then divided into two parts again so I can figure out that the orange trapezoid equals 12. Two turquoise symbols equal the trapezoid. Since I know that the turquoise shapes must be the same number I can determine that it equals 6. Then I can figure out the right side by subtracting 6 (the value of the turquoise shape) from the known side value of 24. Therefore, the purple quadrilateral equals 18. I can check my work by adding the value of all of the shapes: 6 + 6 + 12 + 18 + 6 = 48.
No two mobile puzzles are the same, but there are some strategies that you can teach students that will help them be able to solve them.
Solving Strategies:
- Determine the value of the entire mobile.
- Determine the value of each side.
- Look for symbols with given values.
- Look for beams that have all of the same symbol.
Why Should You Use Mobile Balance Puzzles?
- Extend Math Concepts
- Develop Problem Solving Skills
- Introduce Algebraic Thinking
Extend Math Concepts
Mobile balance puzzles can be used to extend a variety of math concepts. They can be used with small numbers, large numbers, fractions and decimals. They can be used to practice division. Students can divide to determine the value of each side. Younger students that are not yet familiar with division strategies can use addition to add the numbers on both sides to get equal amounts. I also encourage students not yet comfortable with division to think of their double facts when solving mobile puzzles.
Develop Problem-Solving Skills
Mobile balance puzzles require multi-step problem solving. After determining the value of each side, you may then have to subtract the value of one shape to determine the value of the other shapes. You may also have to divide the number again if there is more than one of the shape. This requires students to determine what operation would be needed to solve the problem. They must also persevere to complete multiple steps in the same problem.
Introduce Algebraic Thinking
Just like logic puzzles, mobile puzzles require you to solve for an unknown quantity. This is a great introduction to algebra for younger students. They learn that symbols can stand for quantities and that they can use what they know about the problem to determine the value of the unknown symbol. As students develop their mathematical thinking, you can help them make the connection between puzzles and mystery addend equations.
How Do You Use Mobile Balance Puzzles?
Mobile balance puzzles are easy to use. Students can solve them individually, with a partner, or a group. In my gifted and talented classroom I like to place puzzles at differing ability levels around the room. Students move around the room to solve them. They keep track of their answers on their recording sheets. If students are having trouble with a puzzle, I encourage them to try a lower number until they feel more comfortable with the process. Students do not have a set partner, but they are free to discuss their mathematical reasoning with others at the same puzzle.
Students can also be given an individual packet to solve on their own if they complete other tasks quickly. They are a great extension activity that involve critical thinking. Students should be encouraged to self check their work by adding up each side to see if they are equal before turning them in.
Mobile balance puzzles are a great way to extend learning in your classroom. Download the free emoji mobile math puzzles to try them out today! You can also check out beginning mobile puzzles, challenging mobile puzzles, fraction mobile puzzles and decimal mobile puzzles if you are looking for more. I hope you consider using them with your students.
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