DragonBox hidden number quests maths mission

Quick answer

You can solve hidden number quests by using clues, thinking logically, and working out what numbers are missing. It's like being a detective in a maths adventure!

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to solve simple hidden number problems by using clues and working backwards from what you know.

• You can find missing numbers in simple equations.
• You can use logic to guess and check your answers.
• You can work out problems using clues like "this number is 3 more than 5".
• You can solve puzzles by thinking step by step.

Why this matters

Hidden number quests are like detective games where you need to use maths to find the answer. These skills help you in everyday life, like when you're sharing snacks, solving puzzles, or even playing games. They also help you get ready for more advanced maths like algebra later on!

How it works

Hidden number quests work like this:

1. You get a clue about a number.
2. You think about what number could fit that clue.
3. You try your guess and see if it works.
4. If it doesn’t work, you try again with a new guess.

This is called guess and check, and it's a great way to solve problems!

Examples you can see

Let’s look at some examples to help you understand:

Example 1: The Magic Box

You see a box that says “This number is 4 more than 7.” What number is in the box?

Step 1: Think about what “4 more than 7” means. That means 7 + 4.

Step 2: Add 7 + 4 = 11.

So, the number in the box is 11.

Example 2: The Mystery Number

You find a note that says, “I am 3 less than 10.” What number are you?

Step 1: Think about what “3 less than 10” means. That means 10 – 3.

Step 2: Subtract 10 – 3 = 7.

So, the number you are is 7.

Example 3: The Dragon’s Treasure

You are on a treasure hunt. A dragon says, “My treasure is 5 more than what you have.” You have 3 coins. How many coins does the dragon have?

Step 1: You have 3 coins.

Step 2: The dragon has 5 more than you.

Step 3: Add 3 + 5 = 8.

The dragon has 8 coins.

Try it as a mini adventure

Imagine you are on a DragonBox maths mission to find a hidden treasure!

You must solve 3 clues to unlock the treasure chest:

1. First clue: “This number is 2 more than 6.”
2. Second clue: “This number is 4 less than 10.”
3. Third clue: “This number is double what 3 is.”

What number do you need to put in each box to open the treasure chest?

Step 1: First clue

“This number is 2 more than 6.”

What is 6 + 2?

Answer: 8

Step 2: Second clue

“This number is 4 less than 10.”

What is 10 – 4?

Answer: 6

Step 3: Third clue

“This number is double what 3 is.”

What is 3 × 2?

Answer: 6

So, the numbers to open the treasure chest are: 8, 6, 6.

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking “more than” means to subtract. Why it happens: It's easy to mix up what the words mean. Fix: Remember that “more than” means to add.
• Mistake: Guessing a number and not checking if it fits the clue. Why it happens: You might be in a hurry. Fix: Always check your answer by reading the clue again.
• Mistake: Thinking “double” means to multiply by 3. Why it happens: The word “double” sounds like it could be “three times.” Fix: Remember that “double” means to multiply by 2.

Parent and carer guide

Help your child by:

• Reading the clues slowly together.
• Using counters or toys to act out the clues.
• Encouraging them to say their answer out loud and explain how they got it.
• Letting them try again if they get the wrong answer – that’s how we learn!
• Not worrying if they get stuck – it’s okay to take a break and come back.

Tip: Try to make it fun! Turn it into a game or story. For example, “You are a detective solving a mystery!”

Practice questions

1. Clue: “This number is 5 more than 3.” What is the number?
2. Clue: “This number is 6 less than 12.” What is the number?
3. Clue: “This number is double what 4 is.” What is the number?
4. Clue: “This number is 3 more than 7.” What is the number?
5. Clue: “This number is 5 less than 10.” What is the number?

Answers:

1. 8
2. 6
3. 8
4. 10
5. 5

FAQ

What is a hidden number quest?

A hidden number quest is a puzzle where you use clues to find a missing number. It's like being a detective!

How can I get better at solving hidden number quests?

Practice by solving clues every day. Try to read the clues slowly and use counters or drawings to help you.

Can I use this in games?

Yes! Many games use hidden number quests to make puzzles more fun. You can even make your own!

Why do we need to learn this?

It helps you think logically and solve problems. These skills will help you in school and in life!

What if I get the answer wrong?

That’s okay! You can try again. Learning from mistakes is how we get better at maths.