This week in maths our Year 3 classes enjoyed investigating number patterns using two yellow dice and one white dice.
The children began by rolling the dice, adding the numbers on the two yellow dice, and then subtracting the number shown on the white dice. For example, if the yellow dice showed 4 and 5 and the white dice showed 3, they worked out (4 + 5) − 3 = 6.
We talked about why we used two dice of the same colour and one different and that it helped everyone keep track of which numbers to add and which to subtract. The children quickly realised how important it was to be systematic so they could find all the possible results.
As they worked, they spotted interesting patterns and began making predictions about what might happen next. Some organised their results in tables and some recorded their results on a whiteboard to make sure they hadn’t missed any combinations!
Why not try it at home?
All you need are three dice.
- Roll two dice and add them together.
- Roll a third dice and subtract that number.
- Record your results and see what patterns you can find!
You could even ask:
- What’s the smallest possible answer?
- What’s the largest possible answer?
- Which results come up most often?
It’s a fun and simple way to explore number patterns as a family!
The children showed fantastic focus, teamwork, and curiosity during this investigation and proved that maths isn’t just about getting answers, but about discovering how numbers connect and patterns unfold.
“Every pattern we spot helps us see the beauty in maths.”
The Year 3 team