Open Ended Math Challenges Problems Questions Problem Solving Tasks

Looking for a way to see if your students can apply the skills you have taught them? These six simple real life challenges will bring math to life! The best part is that this resource will grow as I create more challenges.

How can I use this product?

I have used these to lead a whole group discussion, as well as for small groups, partners, and individuals to really grapple with higher-level thinking.

What skills do my students need to know?

I have used these before I teach a skill so students realize the importance of learning the skill. I have also used these after I taught a skill to see if my students can use it properly. The skills used are: adding/subtracting, simple multiplying/dividing, adding fractions, elapsed time, adding money, making line plots, area/perimeter, and estimating.

NOTE: Challenges use United States currency.

What is included?

PDF File contains 16 pages

2 pages of cover/copyright info

1 page of teacher notes

1 page for Macy’s Ice Cream Shop – Students calculate what the most popular flavors are and decide how much to order

3 pages for Gina’s Garden Design – Students design two square foot gardens, using arrays, area, and adding

1 page for Freddy’s Frame Shop – Students draw a self-portrait, pick a frame, and type of glass to cover their portrait

1 page for Movie Management Company – Students decide what time each movie should start at a theater and fill out the marquee. They have to have time for clean-up as well as stagger the movies so the ticket and snack bar are not crowded.

1 page for Weather Analyst – Students plot and record the amount of rain (in fractions).

1 page for Air Supply – Given a budget, students pick out what items they would like to buy from the Air Supply Store (kites, airplanes, balloons, etc.)

5 pages of Answer Keys – Where appropriate as most questions are open-ended, but I provide tips for what to look for in the answers.

Is this available in a bundle as well?

No, not at this time.

Do you have other products that are related?

Please check out my other project based learning activities!

Other questions or requests?

Please contact me through the “Ask a Question ” tab above or email me at Deirdre@evilmathwizard.com. As always I ask that if you like what you see, to please leave feedback! Also, if you’d like to be notified when I add a new item to my store then please click on the “follow me” button.

How do I connect with Evil Math Wizard?

Be sure to follow my TPT store to receive notifications of new products and upcoming sales. New products are always 50% for the first 24 hours, so it pays to follow my store. To save more money, please leave feedback to earn TPT credits. Also visit my blog for K-5 math tips and freebies you can use tomorrow in your classroom. You can also find me on Facebook and Pinterest.

Other questions or requests?

If you have any requests or questions, please contact me through the “Product Q & A ” tab below or email me at Deirdre@evilmathwizard.com.