Times table treasure hunts

Quick answer

Learning outcome

• You can solve multiplication problems to find the next clue
• You can use your times tables to work out how many items are in groups
• You can play a treasure hunt game that uses multiplication
• You can explain how multiplication helps you find things in a game

Why this matters

• Buying 3 bags of sweets, with 4 sweets in each bag
• Setting 6 tables for a birthday party, with 4 plates at each table
• Playing a game where you score 5 points for each goal
• Measuring how far you can jump by counting steps

How it works

1. Choose a times table (like 2s, 3s, or 5s)
2. Write multiplication clues that match your times table
3. Hide clues around the room or garden
4. Each clue leads to the next one
5. When you solve all the clues, you find a treasure

Examples you can see

• Solution: 3 × 4 = 12 apples
• Hide your next clue at the number 12

• Solution: 5 × 3 = 15 bananas
• Hide your next clue at the number 15

• Solution: 2 × 6 = 12 cherries
• Hide your final treasure at the number 12

Try it as a mini adventure

• Solution: 5 × 3 = 15 steps

• Solution: 3 × 4 = 12 steps

• Solution: 6 × 2 = 12 maps

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking 3 × 4 = 14 instead of 12
  Why it happens: Confusing multiplication with addition or forgetting the facts
  Fix: Count by 3s: 3, 6, 9, 12. Or use your fingers to show 3 groups of 4
• Mistake: Solving 4 × 5 = 20 by adding 4 + 5 = 9
  Why it happens: Mixing up multiplication and addition
  Fix: Think of it as 4 groups of 5, or 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 = 20
• Mistake: Not reading the clue carefully
  Why it happens: Getting excited and rushing through clues
  Fix: Read the clue twice, then solve the multiplication problem

Parent and carer guide

• Choosing the right times table to start with (like 2s or 5s)
• Writing clues that match the child's current level
• Letting children explain how they solved each problem
• Practising multiplication facts before starting the hunt
• Making the hunt fun by using the child's interests (like toys, pets, or games)
• Encouraging children to check their answers
• Helping children read the clues carefully
• Using real objects like counters or blocks to show multiplication
• Letting children make their own clues once they understand the game

Practice questions

1. What is 6 × 3?
   Answer: 18
2. What is 4 × 7?
   Answer: 28
3. What is 9 × 2?
   Answer: 18
4. What is 5 × 8?
   Answer: 40
5. What is 3 × 6?
   Answer: 18

FAQ

What times table should I start with for a treasure hunt?

Start with 2s, 5s, or 10s because these are easier to learn and count. Once you're comfortable, try 3s, 4s, or 6s.

How can I make a treasure hunt harder for older children?

Use larger numbers, combine two times tables, or add division clues. You can also make the hunt take place in a bigger space or use more complex directions like "go 3 steps forward and 2 steps right".

Can I use a treasure hunt to learn all the times tables?

Yes! You can play a different treasure hunt for each times table. Start with one table, then try another. You can even make one big treasure hunt that uses many tables.

What if my child doesn't like the treasure hunt idea?

Try making it a story or a game with a friend. You can also change the theme – like a space adventure or a pirate quest – to make it more interesting.

How long should a treasure hunt take?

A short hunt with 3-5 clues can take 10-15 minutes. A longer hunt with 8-10 clues can take 20-30 minutes. Adjust the length to your child's attention span.