Mastery-Aligned Maths Tutoring

“The best thing has been the increase in confidence and tutors being there to deal with any misunderstandings straight away."

FREE daily maths challenges

A new KS2 maths challenge every day. Perfect as lesson starters - no prep required!

FREE daily maths challenges

Maths Problem Solving At KS2: Strategies and Resources For Primary School Teachers

John Dabell

Maths problem solving KS2 is crucial to succeeding in national assessments. If your Key Stage 2 pupils are still struggling with reasoning and problem solving in Maths, here are some problem solving strategies to try with your classes; all aligned to Ofsted’s suggested primary school teaching strategies.

Reasoning and problem solving are widely understood to be one of the most important activities in school mathematics. As far back as 1982,  The Cockcroft Report , stated:

‘The ability to solve problems is at the heart of mathematics. Mathematics is only “useful” to the extent to which it can be applied to a particular situation and it is the ability to apply mathematics to a variety of situations to which we give the name “problem solving”. […] At each stage […] the teacher needs to help pupils to understand how to apply the concepts and skills which are being learned and how to make use of them to solve problems. These problems should relate both to the application of mathematics to everyday situations within the pupils’ experience, and also to situations which are unfamiliar.’

Thirty plus years later and problem solving is still the beating heart of the Maths curriculum and – along with fluency and reasoning – completes the triad of aims in the 2014 New National Curriculum.

Ofsted’s view on problem solving in the Maths curriculum

Despite its centrality, Ofsted report that ‘ problem solving is not emphasised enough in the Maths curriculum ’. Not surprisingly, problem solving isn’t taught that well either because teachers can lack confidence, or they tend to rely on a smaller range of tried and tested strategies they feel comfortable with but which may not always ‘hit home’. If you’re looking to provide further support to those learners who haven’t yet mastered problem solving, you probably need a range of different strategies, depending on both the problem being attempted and the aptitude of the pupil.

We’ve therefore created a free KS2 resource aimed at Maths Coordinators and KS2 teachers that teaches you when and how to use 9 key problem solving techniques:  The Ultimate Guide to Problem Solving Techniques

The context around KS2 problem solving

According to Jane Jones, former HMI and National Lead for Mathematics, in her presentation at the Jurassic Maths Hub:

  • Problems do not have to be set in real-life contexts, beware pseudo contexts.
  • Providing a range of puzzles and other problems helps pupils to reason strategically to approach problems, sequence unfolding solutions, and use recording to help their mathematical thinking for next steps.
  • It is particularly important that teachers and TAs stress reasoning, rather than just checking whether the final answer is correct.
  • Pupils of all ability need to learn how to solve problems – not just the high attainers or fastest workers.

The Ultimate Guide to Problem Solving Techniques

The Ultimate Guide to Problem Solving Techniques

9 ready-to-go problem solving techniques with accompanying tasks to get KS2 reasoning independently

How to approach KS2 maths problems

So what do we do? Well Ofsted advice is pretty clear on what to do when teaching problem solving. Jane Jones says we should:

  • Set problems as part of learning in all topics for all pupils.
  • Vary the ways in which you pose problems.
  • Try to resist prompting pupils too soon and focusing on getting ‘the answer’ – pupils need to build their confidence, skills and resilience in solving problems, so that they can apply them naturally in other situations.
  • Make sure you discuss alternative approaches with pupils to help develop their reasoning.
  • Ensure that problems for high attainers involve demanding reasoning and problem-solving skills, not just harder numbers.

Perhaps more than most topics in Maths, teaching pupils how to approach problem solving questions effectively requires a systematic approach. Pupils can face any number of multi-step word problems throughout their SATs and they will face them without our help. To truly give pupils the tools they need to approach problem solving in Maths we must ingrain techniques for  approaching  problems.

With this in mind, below are some methods and techniques for you to consider when teaching problem solving in your KS2 Maths lessons. For greater detail and details on how to teach this methods, download the  Ultimate Guide to Problem Solving Techniques

Models for approaching KS2 problem solving

Becoming self-assured and capable as a problem solver is an intricate business that requires a range of skills and experience. Children need something to follow. They can’t just pluck a plan of attack out of thin air which is why models of problem solving are important especially when made memorable. They help establish a pattern within pupils so that, when they see a problem, they feel confident in taking the steps towards solving it.

Find out how we encourage children to approach problem solving independently in our blog: 20 Maths Strategies KS2 That Guarantee Progress for All Pupils.

The most commonly used model is that of George Polya (1973), who proposed 4 stages in problem solving, namely:

  • Understand the problem
  • Devise a strategy for solving it
  • Carry out the strategy
  • Check the result

Many models have followed the Polya model and use acronyms to make the stages stick. Which model you use can depend on the age of the children you are teaching and sometimes the types of word problems they are trying to solve. Below are several examples of Polya model acronyms:

C – Circle the question words U – Underline key words B – Box any key numbers E – Evaluate (what steps do I take?) S – Solve and check (does my answer make sense and how can I double check?)

R – Read the problem correctly. I – Identify the relevant information. D – Determine the operation and unit for expressing the answer. E – Enter the correct numbers and calculate

I – Identify the problem D – Define the problem E – Examine the options A – Act on a plan L – Look at the consequences

R – Read and record the problem I – Illustrate your thinking with pictures, models, number lines etc C – Compute, calculate and check E – Explain your thinking

R – Read the question and underline the important bits U – Understand: think about what to do and write the number sentences you will need C –  Choose how you will work it out S – Solve the problem A – Answer C – Check

Q – Question – read it carefully U – Understand – underline or circle key elements A – Approximate – think about the size of your answer C – Calculate K – Know if the answer is sensible or not

T – Think about the problem and ponder E – Explore and get to the root of the problem A – Act by selecting a strategy R – Reassess and scrutinise and evaluate the efficiency of the method

The idea behind these problem solving models is the same: to give children a structure and to build an internal monitor so they have a business-like way of working through a problem. You can choose which is most appropriate for the age group and ability of the children you are teaching.

The model you choose is less important than knowing that pupils can draw upon a model to follow, ensuring they approach problems in a systematic and meaningful way. A far simpler model – that we use in the   Ultimate Guide to KS2 Problem Solving Techniques  – is UCR: Understand the problem, Communicate and Reflect.

You then need to give pupils lots of opportunities to practice this! You can find lots of FREE White Rose Maths aligned maths resources, problem solving activities and printable worksheets for KS1 and KS2 pupils in the Third Space Learning Maths Hub .

You might also be interested in:

  • 25 Fun Maths Problems For KS2 And KS3 (From Easy To Very Hard!)
  • 30 Problem Solving Maths Questions And Answers For GCSE
  • Why SSDD Problems Are Such An Effective Tool To Teach Problem Solving At KS3 & KS4

What’s included in the guide?

After reading the  Ultimate Guide to KS2 Problem Solving Techniques , we guarantee you will have a new problem solving technique to test out in class tomorrow. It provides question prompts and activities to try out, and shows you step by step how to teach these 9 techniques

  • Open ended problem solving
  • Using logical reasoning

Working backwards

Drawing a diagram

Drawing a table

Creating an organised list

Looking for a pattern

Acting it out

Guessing and checking

Cognitive Activation: getting KS2 pupils in the lightbulb zone

If you need more persuasion, pupils who use strategies that inspire them to think more deeply about maths problems are linked with higher Maths achievement. In 2015 The  National Education Research Foundation  (NFER) published ‘ PISA in Practice: Cognitive Activation in Maths ’. This shrewd report has largely slipped under the Maths radar but it offers considerable food for thought regarding what we can do as teachers to help mathematical literacy and boost higher mathematical achievement.

Cognitive Activation isn’t anything mysterious; just teaching problem solving strategies that pupils can think about and call upon when confronted by a Maths problem they are trying to solve. Cognitive It encourages us as teachers to develop problems that can be solved in more than one way and ‘may require different solutions in different contexts’. For this to work, exposing children to challenging content and encouraging a culture of exploratory talk is key. As is:

  • Giving pupils maths problem solving questions that require them to think for an extended time.
  • Asking pupils to use their own procedures for solving complex problems.
  • Creating a learning community where pupils are able to make mistakes.
  • Asking pupils to explain how they solved a problem and why they choose that method.
  • Presenting pupils with problems in different contexts and ask them to apply what they have learned to new contexts.
  • Giving pupils problems with no immediately obvious method of solution or multiple solutions.
  • Encouraging pupils to reflect on problems.

Sparking cognitive activation is the same as sparking a fire – once it is lit it can burn on its own. It does, however, require time, structure, and the use of several techniques for approaching problem solving. Techniques, such as open-ended problem solving, are usually learned by example so we advise you create several models to go through with pupils, as well as challenge questions for independent work. Many examples exist and we encourage you to explore more (e.g. analysing and investigating, creating a tree diagram, and using simpler numbers).

Read these:

  • How to develop maths reasoning skills in KS2 pupils
  • FREE CPD PowerPoint: Reasoning Problem Solving & Planning for Depth
  • KS3 Maths Problem Solving

That time, effort, and planning will – however – be well spent. Equipping pupils with the tools to solve problems they have never seen before is more akin to teaching for life than teaching for Maths. The skills they gain from being taught problem solving successfully will be skills they use and hone for the rest of their life – not just for their SATs.

For a range of problem solving techniques, complete with explanations, contextual uses, example problems and challenge questions – don’t forget to download our free  Ultimate Guide to KS2 problem solving and reasoning techniques  resource here.

KS2 problem Solving FAQs

Here are some techniques to teach problem solving to primary school pupils: Open ended problem solving Using logical reasoning Working backwards Drawing a diagram Drawing a table Creating an organised list Looking for a pattern Acting it out Guessing and checking

Ofsted say that teachers can encourage problem-solving by: Setting problems as part of learning in all topics for all pupils. Varying the ways in which you pose problems. Trying to resist prompting pupils too soon and focusing on getting ‘the answer’ – pupils need to build their confidence, skills and resilience in solving problems, so that they can apply them naturally in other situations. Making sure you discuss alternative approaches with pupils to help develop their reasoning. Ensuring that problems for high attainers involve demanding reasoning and problem-solving skills, not just harder numbers.

DO YOU HAVE STUDENTS WHO NEED MORE SUPPORT IN MATHS?

Every week Third Space Learning’s specialist online maths tutors support thousands of students across hundreds of schools with weekly online 1 to 1 maths lessons designed to plug gaps and boost progress.

Since 2013 these personalised one to 1 lessons have helped over 150,000 primary and secondary students become more confident, able mathematicians.

Learn how the programmes are aligned to maths mastery teaching or request a personalised quote for your school to speak to us about your school’s needs and how we can help.

Related articles

Maths Problem Solving: Engaging Your Students And Strengthening Their Mathematical Skills

Maths Problem Solving: Engaging Your Students And Strengthening Their Mathematical Skills

Free Year 7 Maths Test With Answers And Mark Scheme: Mixed Topic Questions

Free Year 7 Maths Test With Answers And Mark Scheme: Mixed Topic Questions

What Is A Number Square? Explained For Primary School Teachers, Parents & Pupils

What Is A Number Square? Explained For Primary School Teachers, Parents & Pupils

What Is Numicon? Explained For Primary School Teachers, Parents And Pupils

What Is Numicon? Explained For Primary School Teachers, Parents And Pupils

FREE Guide to Maths Mastery

All you need to know to successfully implement a mastery approach to mathematics in your primary school, at whatever stage of your journey.

Ideal for running staff meetings on mastery or sense checking your own approach to mastery.

Privacy Overview

Cambridge University Faculty of Mathematics

Or search by topic

Number and algebra

  • The Number System and Place Value
  • Calculations and Numerical Methods
  • Fractions, Decimals, Percentages, Ratio and Proportion
  • Properties of Numbers
  • Patterns, Sequences and Structure
  • Algebraic expressions, equations and formulae
  • Coordinates, Functions and Graphs

Geometry and measure

  • Angles, Polygons, and Geometrical Proof
  • 3D Geometry, Shape and Space
  • Measuring and calculating with units
  • Transformations and constructions
  • Pythagoras and Trigonometry
  • Vectors and Matrices

Probability and statistics

  • Handling, Processing and Representing Data
  • Probability

Working mathematically

  • Thinking mathematically
  • Mathematical mindsets
  • Cross-curricular contexts
  • Physical and digital manipulatives

For younger learners

  • Early Years Foundation Stage

Advanced mathematics

  • Decision Mathematics and Combinatorics
  • Advanced Probability and Statistics

Working Systematically at KS2 - Primary Teachers

This page has been superseded by our Working Systematically - Primary Teachers page

Scroll down to see our complete collection of KS2 problems that require children to work systematically, or explore the two sub-collections focusing on important aspects of systematic working.

This collection is one of our Primary Curriculum collections - tasks that are grouped by topic.

problem solving worksheets ks2

Finding All Possibilities Upper Primary

These activities focus on finding all possible solutions so working in a systematic way will ensure none are left out.

problem solving worksheets ks2

Ordered Ways of Working Upper Primary

These activities lend themselves to systematic working in the sense that it helps to have an ordered approach.

problem solving worksheets ks2

Sitting Round the Party Tables

Sweets are given out to party-goers in a particular way. Investigate the total number of sweets received by people sitting in different positions.

problem solving worksheets ks2

Beads and Bags

How could you put these three beads into bags? How many different ways can you do it? How could you record what you've done?

problem solving worksheets ks2

What could the half time scores have been in these Olympic hockey matches?

problem solving worksheets ks2

School Fair Necklaces

How many possible symmetrical necklaces can you find? How do you know you've found them all?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Nine-pin Triangles

How many different triangles can you make on a circular pegboard that has nine pegs?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Five More Coins

Could Ben have any amount of money between 5p and £2 in his pocket if he has five coins?

problem solving worksheets ks2

What Do You Need?

Four of these clues are needed to find the chosen number on this grid and four are true but do nothing to help in finding the number. Can you sort out the clues and find the number?

problem solving worksheets ks2

A Mixed-up Clock

There is a clock-face where the numbers have become all mixed up. Can you find out where all the numbers have got to from these ten statements?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Fifteen Cards

Can you use the information to find out which cards I have used?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Guess the Dominoes

This task depends on learners sharing reasoning, listening to opinions, reflecting and pulling ideas together.

problem solving worksheets ks2

Greater Than or Less Than?

Use the numbers and symbols to make this number sentence correct. How many different ways can you find?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Can you put the numbers 1-5 in the V shape so that both 'arms' have the same total?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Coded Hundred Square

This 100 square jigsaw is written in code. It starts with 1 and ends with 100. Can you build it up?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Multiply Multiples 1

Can you complete this calculation by filling in the missing numbers? In how many different ways can you do it?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Buying a Balloon

Lolla bought a balloon at the circus. She gave the clown six coins to pay for it. What could Lolla have paid for the balloon?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Round the Dice Decimals 1

Use two dice to generate two numbers with one decimal place. What happens when you round these numbers to the nearest whole number?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Can you replace the letters with numbers? Is there only one solution in each case?

problem solving worksheets ks2

A Square of Numbers

Can you put the numbers 1 to 8 into the circles so that the four calculations are correct?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Cubes Here and There

How many shapes can you build from three red and two green cubes? Can you use what you've found out to predict the number for four red and two green?

problem solving worksheets ks2

First Connect Three

Add or subtract the two numbers on the spinners and try to complete a row of three. Are there some numbers that are good to aim for?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Finding Fifteen

Tim had nine cards each with a different number from 1 to 9 on it. How could he have put them into three piles so that the total in each pile was 15?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Four bags contain a large number of 1s, 3s, 5s and 7s. Can you pick any ten numbers from the bags so that their total is 37?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Through the Window

My local DIY shop calculates the price of its windows according to the area of glass and the length of frame used. Can you work out how they arrived at these prices?

problem solving worksheets ks2

All the Digits

This multiplication uses each of the digits 0 - 9 once and once only. Using the information given, can you replace the stars in the calculation with figures?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Choose four different digits from 1-9 and put one in each box so that the resulting four two-digit numbers add to a total of 100.

problem solving worksheets ks2

Light the Lights Again

Each light in this interactivity turns on according to a rule. What happens when you enter different numbers? Can you find the smallest number that lights up all four lights?

problem solving worksheets ks2

This Pied Piper of Hamelin

Investigate the different numbers of people and rats there could have been if you know how many legs there are altogether!

problem solving worksheets ks2

Two Primes Make One Square

Can you make square numbers by adding two prime numbers together?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Sealed Solution

Ten cards are put into five envelopes so that there are two cards in each envelope. The sum of the numbers inside it is written on each envelope. What numbers could be inside the envelopes?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Prison Cells

There are 78 prisoners in a square cell block of twelve cells. The clever prison warder arranged them so there were 25 along each wall of the prison block. How did he do it?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Display Boards

Design an arrangement of display boards in the school hall which fits the requirements of different people.

problem solving worksheets ks2

Button-up Some More Live

How many ways can you find to do up all four buttons on my coat? How about if I had five buttons? Six ...?

problem solving worksheets ks2

The Dice Train

This dice train has been made using specific rules. How many different trains can you make?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Curious Number

Can you order the digits from 1-3 to make a number which is divisible by 3 so when the last digit is removed it becomes a 2-figure number divisible by 2, and so on?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Counting Cards

A magician took a suit of thirteen cards and held them in his hand face down. Every card he revealed had the same value as the one he had just finished spelling. How did this work?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Cover the Tray

These practical challenges are all about making a 'tray' and covering it with paper.

problem solving worksheets ks2

5 on the Clock

On a digital clock showing 24 hour time, over a whole day, how many times does a 5 appear? Is it the same number for a 12 hour clock over a whole day?

problem solving worksheets ks2

Ribbon Squares

What is the largest 'ribbon square' you can make? And the smallest? How many different squares can you make altogether?

problem solving worksheets ks2

The Remainders Game

Play this game and see if you can figure out the computer's chosen number.

problem solving worksheets ks2

Factor Lines

Arrange the four number cards on the grid, according to the rules, to make a diagonal, vertical or horizontal line.

problem solving worksheets ks2

Place the 16 different combinations of cup/saucer in this 4 by 4 arrangement so that no row or column contains more than one cup or saucer of the same colour.

problem solving worksheets ks2

This cube has ink on each face which leaves marks on paper as it is rolled. Can you work out what is on each face and the route it has taken?

  • Home   |  
  • About   |  
  • Contact Us   |  
  • Privacy   |  
  • Newsletter   |  
  • Shop   |  
  • 🔍 Search Site
  • Easter Color By Number Sheets
  • Printable Easter Dot to Dot
  • Easter Worksheets for kids
  • Kindergarten
  • All Generated Sheets
  • Place Value Generated Sheets
  • Addition Generated Sheets
  • Subtraction Generated Sheets
  • Multiplication Generated Sheets
  • Division Generated Sheets
  • Money Generated Sheets
  • Negative Numbers Generated Sheets
  • Fraction Generated Sheets
  • Place Value Zones
  • Number Bonds
  • Addition & Subtraction
  • Times Tables
  • Fraction & Percent Zones
  • All Calculators
  • Fraction Calculators
  • Percent calculators
  • Area & Volume Calculators
  • Age Calculator
  • Height Calculator
  • Roman Numeral Calculator
  • Coloring Pages
  • Fun Math Sheets
  • Math Puzzles
  • Mental Math Sheets
  • Online Times Tables
  • Online Addition & Subtraction
  • Math Grab Packs
  • All Math Quizzes
  • 1st Grade Quizzes
  • 2nd Grade Quizzes
  • 3rd Grade Quizzes
  • 4th Grade Quizzes
  • 5th Grade Quizzes
  • 6th Grade Math Quizzes
  • Place Value
  • Rounding Numbers
  • Comparing Numbers
  • Number Lines
  • Prime Numbers
  • Negative Numbers
  • Roman Numerals
  • Subtraction
  • Add & Subtract
  • Multiplication
  • Fraction Worksheets
  • Learning Fractions
  • Fraction Printables
  • Percent Worksheets & Help
  • All Geometry
  • 2d Shapes Worksheets
  • 3d Shapes Worksheets
  • Shape Properties
  • Geometry Cheat Sheets
  • Printable Shapes
  • Coordinates
  • Measurement
  • Math Conversion
  • Statistics Worksheets
  • Bar Graph Worksheets
  • Venn Diagrams
  • All Word Problems
  • Finding all possibilities
  • Logic Problems
  • Ratio Word Problems
  • All UK Maths Sheets
  • Year 1 Maths Worksheets
  • Year 2 Maths Worksheets
  • Year 3 Maths Worksheets
  • Year 4 Maths Worksheets
  • Year 5 Maths Worksheets
  • Year 6 Maths Worksheets
  • All AU Maths Sheets
  • Kindergarten Maths Australia
  • Year 1 Maths Australia
  • Year 2 Maths Australia
  • Year 3 Maths Australia
  • Year 4 Maths Australia
  • Year 5 Maths Australia
  • Meet the Sallies
  • Certificates

Finding all Possibilities Math Solving Problems

Welcome to the Math Salamanders Finding all Possibilities Solving Problems worksheets. All the problems on this page have more than one possible answer. The aim is to get the develop systematic skills to find all the possible solutions to the problems posed.

For full functionality of this site it is necessary to enable JavaScript.

Here are the instructions how to enable JavaScript in your web browser .

Finding all Possibilities

Math problems.

Solving problems should be at the heart of mathematical teaching and learning.

When we set kids problems to solve, we are giving them a reason for learning and practicing all the skills and learning all the facts in lessons.

newton thinking image

The problems on this page all involving Finding All Possibilities.

This means that every problem set will have many different answers.

Most problems we set for kids will only have a single correct answer. The problems on this page have lots of different solutions which need to be found. It encourages children to persevere and try different approaches if one approach does not work.

Many of the problems are easily extendable by simply changing one of the variables.

The aim of the problems is to get kids thinking logically and working systematically to find all the possible answers.

The level of the worksheets goes from 1st grade to 5th grade (UK Years 1 to 6).

Using these sheets will help your child to:

  • apply their math skills to solve problems;
  • develop a systematic approach;
  • persevere and try to find as many answers as possible.

Finding All Possibilities

1st grade problems.

  • 1-2-3 Math Puzzle
  • PDF version
  • A-mazing puzzle 1
  • Find the 2 Digits 1
  • Collecting Snails 1
  • Frogs in a Bucket 1
  • How Much Treasure 1
  • Stepping Stone Puzzle

2nd Grade Math Problems

  • 3-Card Trick
  • A-mazing Puzzle 2
  • Find the 2 Digits 2
  • Collecting Snails 2
  • Frogs in a Bucket 2
  • How Much Treasure 2

3rd Grade Math Problems

  • 4-Card Trick
  • A-mazing Puzzle 3
  • Find the 2 Digits 3
  • Find the 3 digits 1
  • Collecting Snails 3
  • Frogs in a Bucket 3
  • How Much Treasure 3

4th Grade Math Problems

  • Find the 4 Digits 1
  • Collecting Snails 4
  • Frogs in a Bucket 4
  • How Much Treasure 4
  • 5th Grade Math Problems
  • Collecting Snails 5
  • Frogs in a Bucket 5
  • How Much Treasure 5

More Recommended Math Worksheets

Take a look at some more of our worksheets similar to these.

Math Word Problems by Grade

We have a variety of different problem solving worksheets, including 'real-life' problems.

The sheets go from 1st through 5th grade.

  • Math Problems for Children 1st Grade
  • 2nd Grade Math Word Problems
  • Math Word Problems for kids 3rd Grade
  • 4th Grade Math Word Problems

Fraction Problems

Here you will find a range of fraction word problems to help your child apply their fraction learning.

The worksheets cover a range of fraction objectives, from adding and subtracting fractions to working out fractions of numbers. The sheets support fraction learning from 2nd grade to 5th grade.

  • Fraction Riddles for kids (easier)
  • Free Printable Fraction Riddles (harder)

Ratio Problems

Here you will find a range of ratio word problems to help your child understand what a ratio is and how ratios work.

The sheets support ratio learning at a 5th grade level.

  • Math Logic Problems

This is our logic problems area where all the worksheets involve using reasoning and logical thinking skills.

The sheets here are designed to get children thinking logically and puzzling the problems out.

There are a range of different logic problems from 1st through 5th grade!

How to Print or Save these sheets 🖶

Need help with printing or saving? Follow these 3 steps to get your worksheets printed perfectly!

  • How to Print support

Subscribe to Math Salamanders News

Sign up for our newsletter to get free math support delivered to your inbox each month. Plus, get a seasonal math grab pack included for free!

math salamanders news image

  • Newsletter Signup

Return to Math Problem Worksheets

Return from Finding All Possibilities page to Math Salamanders Homepage

Math-Salamanders.com

The Math Salamanders hope you enjoy using these free printable Math worksheets and all our other Math games and resources.

We welcome any comments about our site or worksheets on the Facebook comments box at the bottom of every page.

New! Comments

TOP OF PAGE

Follow Me on Pinterest

© 2010-2024 Math Salamanders Limited. All Rights Reserved.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Copyright Policy

Resources you can trust

  • Show all (57)
  • (-) Primary (52)

Subject categories

  • All subject categories (141)
  • (-) Problem solving (52)
  • All number resources (3)
  • Geometry (3)
  • 2-D shapes (2)
  • Calculation (2)
  • Fractions (2)
  • Measurement (2)
  • Algebra (1)
  • BIDMAS (Order of operations) (1)
  • Christmas (1)
  • Festivals and celebrations (1)
  • Fractions, decimals and percentages (1)
  • Multiplication and division (1)
  • Percentages (1)
  • Ratio and proportion (1)
  • Statistics (1)
  • Straight line graphs (1)
  • Topical and seasonal (1)
  • (-) All key stages (16)

Resource type

  • Worksheet (31)
  • Student activity (28)
  • Differentiated (7)
  • Starter/Plenary (6)
  • Game/quiz (4)
  • Homework (3)
  • Complete lesson (2)
  • Teaching pack (2)
  • Assessment (1)
  • Revision (1)
  • Self-assessment (1)
  • Teaching ideas (1)

Problem solving

Resources to teach problem solving skills

This collection of teaching resources aims to help children develop maths problem solving skills. It features word problems, maths challenges, problem-solving questions and a variety of worksheets and problem solving activities to help your primary school learners develop the problem solving strategies for real life contexts.

Why teach problem solving skills?

Problem solving is a skill that involves a variety of mathematical skills that will help children in real life. From addition and subtraction to fractions, decimals and percentages, we need problem-solving strategies to solve day-to-day problems involving time, money and measurement. Problem solving is an integral strand of the KS2 maths curriculum and children will be tested on their problem-solving skills in their SATs and onwards.

Have you seen our teaching packs for problem solving in maths?

If you’re teaching upper key stage 2, you may like our problem-solving teaching packs: Problem solving - number and Problem solving – measurement, geometry and statistics . Both packs comprise scaffolded word problems and differentiated activities based upon the relevant problem-solving objectives in the national curriculum. Or you may prefer Challenging maths , packed with maths mastery style questions, word problems and games to enrich your maths lessons and turn your year 5/6 class into true problem solvers!

Search results

  • Primary Hub
  • Art & Design
  • Design & Technology
  • Health & Wellbeing
  • Secondary Hub
  • Citizenship
  • Primary CPD
  • Secondary CPD
  • Book Awards
  • All Products
  • Primary Products
  • Secondary Products
  • School Trips
  • Trip Directory
  • Trips by Subject
  • Trips by Type
  • Trips by Region
  • Submit a Trip Venue

Trending stories

Actor playing Lady Macbeth

Top results

problem solving worksheets ks2

  • Teaching Resources
  • Maths Problem Solving Questions

Maths problem solving questions – KS2 lesson plan

Teachwire

Zipped file containing 3 PDFs

The need to prepare children for their times tables test often means that we overlook building their reasoning and problem-solving skills. This is to allow time to develop number fluency and recall.

However, NRICH’s curriculum-linked activities enable your learners to become more fluent alongside developing their reasoning and problem-solving skills.

In this maths problem solving questions lesson you’ll work through NRICH’s Shape Times Shape worksheet to practise and develop some of these underused skills. 

Maths problem solving questions KS2 learning objectives

  • Times tables facts  
  • Reasoning skills  
  • How to think about finding a way to a solution 
  • The idea of a symbol (in this case a shape) representing a number 

Make sure all the children can see the Shape Times Shape worksheet. You could display it on the board or give out copies of the printable sheet.

Try to say very little as you introduce the task. Just review what the problem itself states, then give learners a few minutes to think on their own. 

NRICH is a maths outreach project, which is a collaboration between the Faculties of Education and Mathematics, based at the University of Cambridge. NRICH resources are free for teachers to use with their classes. 

Maths problem solving questions lesson

Similar resources

  • Migration KS2 – Use news reports to explore vocab and stats
  • Negative numbers worksheet – Teaching negative numbers in KS2
  • Fractions of amounts worksheet – For KS2, including bar models
  • Equivalent fractions worksheet – Practice and problems for KS2
  • Tarsia puzzle – Equivalent fractions for KS2 maths

Sign up to our newsletter

You'll also receive regular updates from Teachwire with free lesson plans, great new teaching ideas, offers and more. (You can unsubscribe at any time.)

Which sectors are you interested in?

Early Years

Thank you for signing up to our emails!

Explore teaching packs

Pie Corbett Ultimate KS2 Fiction Collection

Why join Teachwire?

Get what you need to become a better teacher with unlimited access to exclusive free classroom resources and expert CPD downloads.

Exclusive classroom resource downloads

Free worksheets and lesson plans

CPD downloads, written by experts

Resource packs to supercharge your planning

Special web-only magazine editions

Educational podcasts & resources

Access to free literacy webinars

Newsletters and offers

Create free account

By signing up you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy .

Already have an account? Log in here

Thanks, you're almost there

To help us show you teaching resources, downloads and more you’ll love, complete your profile below.

Welcome to Teachwire!

Set up your account.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Commodi nulla quos inventore beatae tenetur.

I would like to receive regular updates from Teachwire with free lesson plans, great new teaching ideas, offers and more. (You can unsubscribe at any time.)

Log in to Teachwire

Not registered with Teachwire? Sign up for free

Reset Password

Remembered your password? Login here

close

Cookie Consent

We use cookies to help provide a better website experience for you, and help us to understand how people use our website. Our partners will also collect data and use cookies for ad personalisation and measurement.

Clicking "Accept" will allow us and our partners to use cookies, learn more in our cookie policy or to change your cookie preferences, click "Manage".

To find out more about cookies and the types of cookies we are setting please visit our cookie policy .

If you'd prefer that certain types of cookie are not saved on your browser when visiting our website, use the toggles below to adjust those preferences and click "Save choices".

Strictly Necessary

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and without them you would not be able to reliably use the website. For example, logging into your account or completing forms.

Analytics Cookies

A series of cookies that collect anonymised data on how users interact with our website. This anonymous data helps us improve the website with a focus on its users, for example, ensuring the most popular content is easier to access.

View associated providers +

Marketing Cookies

These cookies track your online activity to help advertisers deliver more relevant and personalised advertising or to limit how many times you see an ad. These cookies can share that information with other organisations or advertisers.

problem solving worksheets ks2

  • Home Learning
  • Free Resources
  • New Resources
  • Free resources
  • New resources
  • Filter resources
  • Childrens mental health
  • Easter resources

Internet Explorer is out of date!

For greater security and performance, please consider updating to one of the following free browsers

KS2 Resources & Worksheets > KS2 Mathematics Resources & Worksheets >

Problem Solving Resources and Worksheets

Subscription Level

National Curriculum Level

Topic/Skill

Filter by Keyword

Compare Calculations Teaching PowerPoint

Compare Calculations Teaching PowerPoint

These lesson slides guide pupils through the prior learning of completing multi-step addition and subtraction problems, before moving on to the main skill of comparing calculations without focusing on their answers.

Find Missing Numbers Teaching PowerPoint

Find Missing Numbers Teaching PowerPoint

These lesson slides guide pupils through the prior learning of using the inverse operation, before moving on to the main skill of finding missing numbers.

Number Line to 1,000,000 - Teaching PowerPoint

Number Line to 1,000,000 – Teaching PowerPoint

These lesson slides guide pupils through the prior learning of partitioning numbers to 1,000,000, before moving on to the main skill of using number lines to 1,000,000.

Number Line to 1,000,000 - Varied Fluency

Number Line to 1,000,000 – Varied Fluency

This worksheet includes a range of varied fluency questions for pupils to practise the main skill of using number lines to 1,000,000.

Number Line to 1,000,000 - Reasoning and Problem Solving

Number Line to 1,000,000 – Reasoning and Problem Solving

This worksheet includes a range of reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to practise the main skill of using number lines to 1,000,000.

Number Line to 1,000,000 - Extension

Number Line to 1,000,000 – Extension

This worksheet includes a range of varied fluency and reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to practise the main skill of using number lines to 1,000,000.

Number Line to 1,000,000 - Discussion Problems

Number Line to 1,000,000 – Discussion Problems

This worksheet includes a discussion problem that can be used in pairs or in small groups to enable pupils to further their understanding of the concepts linked to using number lines to 1,000,000.

Mental Strategies- Discussion Problems

Mental Strategies- Discussion Problems

This worksheet includes a discussion problem that can be used in pairs or in small groups to enable pupils to further their understanding of the concepts linked to mentally calculating sums and differences.

Mental Strategies - Reasoning and Problem Solving

Mental Strategies – Reasoning and Problem Solving

This worksheet includes a range of reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to practise the main skill of mentally calculating sums and differences.

Mental Strategies - Extension

Mental Strategies – Extension

This worksheet includes a range of varied fluency and reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to further extend and practise the main skill of mentally calculating sums and differences.

Mental Strategies - Varied Fluency

Mental Strategies – Varied Fluency

This worksheet includes a range of varied fluency questions for pupils to practise the main skill of mentally calculating sums and differences.

Mental Strategies Teaching Powerpoint

Mental Strategies Teaching Powerpoint

These lesson slides guide pupils through the prior learning of partitioning numbers to one million before moving on to the main skill of mentally calculating sums and differences.

10/100/1,000/100,000 More or Less Teaching Powerpoint

10/100/1,000/100,000 More or Less Teaching Powerpoint

These lesson slides guide pupils through the prior learning of comparing and ordering numbers to 100,000 before moving on to the main skill of finding 10, 100, 1,000, 10,000, or 100,000 more or less than a given number.

10/100/1,000/100,000 More or Less - Reasoning and Problem Solving

10/100/1,000/100,000 More or Less – Reasoning and Problem Solving

This worksheet includes a range of reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to practise the main skill of finding 10, 100, 1,000, 10,000, or 100,000 more or less than a given number.

10/100/1,000/100,000 More or Less - Extension

10/100/1,000/100,000 More or Less – Extension

This worksheet includes a range of varied fluency and reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to practise the main skill of finding 10, 100, 1,000, 10,000, or 100,000 more or less than a given number.

10/100/1,000/100,000 More or Less - Varied Fluency

10/100/1,000/100,000 More or Less – Discussion Problems

This worksheet includes a discussion problem that can be used in pairs or in small groups to enable pupils to further their understanding of the concepts linked to finding 10, 100, 1,000, 10,000, or 100,000 more or less than a given number.

10/100/1,000/100,000 More or Less – Varied Fluency

This worksheet includes a range of varied fluency questions for pupils to practise the main skill of finding 10, 100, 1,000, 10,000, or 100,000 more or less than a given number.

Partition Numbers to 1,000,000 Teaching Powerpoint

Partition Numbers to 1,000,000 Teaching Powerpoint

These lesson slides guide pupils through the prior learning of finding 10, 100, 1,000, 10,000 or 100,000 more or less before moving on to the main skill of partitioning numbers up to one million. There are a number of questions to check pupils' understanding throughout.

Partition Numbers to 1,000,000 - Extension

Partition Numbers to 1,000,000 – Extension

This worksheet includes a range of varied fluency and reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to further extend and practise the main skill of partitioning numbers up to one million.

Partition Numbers to 1,000,000 - Discussion Problems

Partition Numbers to 1,000,000 – Discussion Problems

This worksheet includes a discussion problem that can be used in pairs or in small groups to enable pupils to further their understanding of the concepts linked to partitioning numbers up to one million.

Partition Numbers to 1,000,000 - Reasoning and Problem Solving

Partition Numbers to 1,000,000 – Reasoning and Problem Solving

This worksheet includes a range of reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to practise the main skill of partitioning numbers up to one million.

Partition Numbers to 1,000,000 - Varied Fluency

Partition Numbers to 1,000,000 – Varied Fluency

This worksheet includes varied fluency, reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to practise the main skill of partitioning numbers to 1,000,000.

Find Missing Numbers - Varied Fluency

Find Missing Numbers – Varied Fluency

This worksheet includes a range of varied fluency questions for pupils to practise the main skill of finding missing numbers.

Find Missing Numbers - Extension

Find Missing Numbers – Extension

This worksheet includes a range of varied fluency and reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to further extend and practise the main skill of finding missing numbers.

Stay in touch

01422 419608

[email protected]

Interested in getting weekly updates from us? Then sign up to our newsletter here!

problem solving worksheets ks2

Information

problem solving worksheets ks2

  • Cookie Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions

Copyright: Classroom Secrets 2024

Company number: 8401067

VAT number: 248 8245 74

  • Terms & Conditions

Designed by Classroom Secrets

  • International
  • Schools directory
  • Resources Jobs Schools directory News Search

KS2 Area and Perimeter Worksheet including problem solving & money

KS2 Area and Perimeter Worksheet including problem solving & money

Subject: Mathematics

Age range: 7-11

Resource type: Worksheet/Activity

LearnDB Primary Resources

Last updated

29 January 2018

  • Share through email
  • Share through twitter
  • Share through linkedin
  • Share through facebook
  • Share through pinterest

problem solving worksheets ks2

Creative Commons "Sharealike"

Your rating is required to reflect your happiness.

It's good to leave some feedback.

Something went wrong, please try again later.

Thanks - very helpful.

Empty reply does not make any sense for the end user

Really good level- made them think!

Mariamcdonald-x

Report this resource to let us know if it violates our terms and conditions. Our customer service team will review your report and will be in touch.

Not quite what you were looking for? Search by keyword to find the right resource:

IMAGES

  1. EYFS, KS1, KS2, SEN, Christmas worksheets and activities

    problem solving worksheets ks2

  2. Problem Solving Multiplication

    problem solving worksheets ks2

  3. KS2 Reasoning and Problem Solving Questions

    problem solving worksheets ks2

  4. KS2 Problem Solving Worksheets Pack (33 sets of differentiated

    problem solving worksheets ks2

  5. KS2 Differentiated prime numbers problem solving and reasoning

    problem solving worksheets ks2

  6. Solve money problems (4F10b)

    problem solving worksheets ks2

VIDEO

  1. They now started solving worksheets from.Pupil book 1

  2. How to Increase Math Understanding with Mixture Problems Worksheets

  3. Number Properties & Operation With Whole Number Worksheet

  4. A Collection of Maths Problem Solving Questions:#1

  5. Solve in Seconds !!!

  6. KS1 Maths

COMMENTS

  1. KS2 Problem Solving in Maths

    Tackle challenging questions using a variety of mathematical skills with our range of problem-solving maths resources, designed for KS2 students. Problem-solving in KS2 is a key skill that will form the foundation of future learning. That's why we've designed some brilliant PowerPoints, worksheets, games, and lots of maths mastery resources to ...

  2. Problem solving

    KS2 Maths Problem solving learning resources for adults, children, parents and teachers.

  3. Problem Solving

    Developing Excellence in Problem Solving with Young Learners. Age 5 to 11. Becoming confident and competent as a problem solver is a complex process that requires a range of skills and experience. In this article, Jennie suggests that we can support this process in three principal ways. Using NRICH Tasks to Develop Key Problem-solving Skills.

  4. Maths Problem Solving Booklets

    Age range: 11-14. Resource type: Worksheet/Activity. File previews. pdf, 424.8 KB. pdf, 353.5 KB. Maths problem solving booklets covering a wide range of mathematical problems designed to improve problem solving strategies as well as numeracy and mathematical ability. Designed to be printed as A5 booklets.

  5. Free KS2 Maths Worksheets For Year 3 To Year 6 (Mastery Teaching)

    These KS2 worksheets include answer sheets and teaching tips where needed, they are also printable and downloadable with many of them available for free. ... of addition and subtraction worksheets cover all KS2 year groups and cover a wide range of skills such as word problem solving, missing number patterns, mental maths, addition of 2, 3, 4 ...

  6. KS2 Maths (Problem Solving)

    KS2 Maths (Problem Solving) These topic-focused SATs questions at the end of a unit will help to test and extend students' understanding as well as helping them to prepare for SATs next year. These questions have fully-worked solutions which can be displayed on a whiteboard making feedback with students more efficient.

  7. KS2 Maths Word Problems

    Challenge your children using our KS2 maths word problems resources. Here you can find a wide array of maths word problems from division to fractions and more. All are designed to help your Key Stage 2 pupils develop their problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way! Choose from differentiated worksheets, challenge cards, fun activities ...

  8. Maths Problem-Solving for kids. KS2 Primary Resources

    Problem-solving key stage 2 primary resources for children. We have tons of maths problem-solving activities for kids, and resources available to help your key stage 2 students practice their problem-solving skills. There are lots of themed resources too. This includes things like sports-themed investigate puzzles, or code cracking problems.

  9. Maths Problem Solving KS2: Strategies & Resources

    Find out how we encourage children to approach problem solving independently in our blog: 20 Maths Strategies KS2 That Guarantee Progress for All Pupils. The most commonly used model is that of George Polya (1973), who proposed 4 stages in problem solving, namely: Many models have followed the Polya model and use acronyms to make the stages ...

  10. KS2 Easy/ Difficult/ Intermediate Maths Challenges

    In this carefully curated KS2 maths challenges area, you will find fun worksheets, word problems, riddles and so much more. Whether you just want to develop children's knowledge further or you wish to prepare them for taking part in a competition such as the Intermediate Maths Challenge , find the resource that best suits your teaching needs.

  11. Math Problem Worksheets

    Here is our selection of different Math problem worksheets. Included in this page are a range of math problem pages from 1st grade to 5th grade. There are also fraction problems, ratio problems as well as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division problems. Many of the problem sheets use 'real life' data, so your child can learn some ...

  12. Reasoning and Problem Solving Questions Collection

    pptx, 2.35 MB. pdf, 3.51 MB. These booklets each contain over 40 reasoning and problem solving questions suitable for KS1, KS2 and KS3 classes. These are the questions that we have been putting out each day in March 2016 on Twitter in the run up to SATS. The answers are provided with some simple notes at the back of the booklet and for some ...

  13. Working Systematically at KS2

    This page has been superseded by our Working Systematically - Primary Teachers page. Scroll down to see our complete collection of KS2 problems that require children to work systematically, or explore the two sub-collections focusing on important aspects of systematic working. This collection is one of our Primary Curriculum collections - tasks ...

  14. Finding all Possibilities Problem Solving

    Many of the problems are easily extendable by simply changing one of the variables. The aim of the problems is to get kids thinking logically and working systematically to find all the possible answers. The level of the worksheets goes from 1st grade to 5th grade (UK Years 1 to 6). Using these sheets will help your child to: persevere and try ...

  15. Problem solving

    Problem solving is a skill that involves a variety of mathematical skills that will help children in real life. From addition and subtraction to fractions, decimals and percentages, we need problem-solving strategies to solve day-to-day problems involving time, money and measurement. Problem solving is an integral strand of the KS2 maths ...

  16. Maths problem solving questions

    Primary Maths. Negative numbers worksheet - Teaching negative numbers in KS2. Fractions of amounts worksheet - For KS2, including bar models. Equivalent fractions worksheet - Practice and problems for KS2. Tarsia puzzle - Equivalent fractions for KS2 maths. Place value worksheets - Free maths PDFs for KS1 and KS2. The NRICH maths team ...

  17. Algebra Worksheets PDFs

    Additional Algebra Resources. Our algebra worksheets PDFs and activities will help you teach your KS2 students in an engaging manner. Typically introduced in Year 6, algebra can be a tricky topic, involving new vocabulary and new mathematical concepts. Our fantastic collection of algebra PDF worksheets contains everything your Year 6 class need ...

  18. PDF KS2 Reasoning & Problem Solving Questions

    any of the problem solving questions in this booklet can be solved using a bar modelling method. Encourage children to use diagrams to help them solve the problem. Here is a problem where bar modelling would help. If you want to find out more about bar modelling please contact the Hub.

  19. Maths problem of the Day

    Practice is crucial to maths success, and our questions are designed to support your daily routines. These problems can be used across Y1 and Y2 throughout the year. Download. Our maths problems of the day provide four problems across KS1, KS2 and Lower KS3 for pupils to solve. View our Maths resources from White Rose Maths.

  20. KS2 Problem Solving Maths Resources & Worksheets Archives

    This worksheet includes a range of varied fluency and reasoning and problem solving questions for pupils to further extend and practise the main skill of finding missing numbers. Our KS2 Problem Solving Maths Resources & Worksheets. Created by teachers for teachers. Join Over 100,000 members with over 8,000 resources.

  21. KS2 Area and Perimeter Worksheet including problem solving & money

    KS2 area and perimeter worksheet - the first part requires children to calculate the area/perimeter of different fields. The second part of the task focuses on problem solving, requiring children to calculate costs for total perimeter fence needed, how many sheep can fit into the fields and the total cost of the sheep.

  22. Primary Resources: Maths: Solving Problems: Word and Real Life Problems

    Primary Resources - free worksheets, lesson plans and teaching ideas for primary and elementary teachers. Advertisement. Hosted by: Our Other Site: MATHS: Solving Problems: ... Solving Problems (Y5 T3 Unit 6b) (Joanne Robson) Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 ; Pizza Problems (4 levels) (Vicki Foy) DOC;