X Tables
Maths In Games

Super Mario Maker maths: jump distances

Use age-appropriate, adult-approved play examples to measure gaps, platform heights and safe routes.

Quick answer

In Super Mario Maker, you can use maths to plan how far Mario needs to jump, how high platforms need to be, and how to build safe routes for Mario to reach the flag pole.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to measure distances and heights in a video game using simple maths and use that information to plan safe jumps and routes. Success signs:
  • You can count how many blocks Mario jumps over
  • You can compare heights of platforms
  • You can plan a safe route from start to finish
  • You can use words like "longer", "shorter", "higher", and "lower" to describe your jumps

Why this matters

When you play Super Mario Maker, you're not just having fun – you're using maths to make your game work. You need to measure how far Mario jumps, how high platforms are, and how to build safe routes. These skills help you in real life too, like when you're planning a garden, measuring ingredients for a recipe, or working out how far you need to walk to get to school.

How it works

In Super Mario Maker, you can use different ways to measure things:
  1. Count how many blocks Mario jumps over
  2. Measure how high platforms are
  3. Plan safe routes by thinking about how far Mario can jump

Examples you can see

Let's imagine you're making a level where Mario needs to jump from one platform to another. Example 1: Jumping over gaps
  • You have a platform that is 5 blocks wide
  • You want Mario to jump over a gap that is 3 blocks wide
  • Mario needs to jump 3 blocks to get to the next platform
Example 2: Platform heights
  • You have a platform that is 2 blocks high
  • You want the next platform to be 4 blocks high
  • The second platform is 2 blocks higher than the first
Example 3: Planning safe routes
  • You want Mario to get from the start to the flag pole
  • You plan a route with platforms that are 3 blocks apart
  • Mario can jump 3 blocks, so he can reach the next platform

Try it as a mini adventure

Mario's Jump Challenge You're designing a level for Mario to complete. You need to make sure he can jump safely from platform to platform. 1st time: You place a platform that is 4 blocks wide. How far can Mario jump to reach the next platform? 2nd time: You place a gap that is 2 blocks wide. How many blocks does Mario need to jump? 3rd time: You place a platform that is 3 blocks high. How high is this platform compared to the one that is 1 block high? 4th time: You want Mario to jump to a platform that is 5 blocks away. How many blocks does he need to jump? 5th time: You want to make sure Mario can reach the flag pole. What is the longest jump he can make in your level?

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking Mario can jump more than he can
    • Why it happens: Not counting the blocks carefully
    • Fix: Count each block slowly and make sure Mario can actually reach the next platform
  • Mistake: Not comparing platform heights properly
    • Why it happens: Confusing how high one platform is compared to another
    • Fix: Use your hands to show how high each platform is and count the blocks
  • Mistake: Making gaps too big for Mario to jump
    • Why it happens: Not thinking about how far Mario can jump
    • Fix: Plan your jumps and make sure they are within Mario's jumping range

Parent and carer guide

You can help your child by:
  • Playing Super Mario Maker together and talking about the jumps
  • Counting blocks with your child as they build levels
  • Using words like "longer", "shorter", "higher", and "lower" to describe jumps
  • Encouraging your child to plan their routes and check if Mario can make it
  • Not worrying if they make mistakes – it's part of learning!

Practice questions

  1. Mario needs to jump 4 blocks to reach the next platform. How many blocks is the gap?
  2. A platform is 3 blocks high. Another platform is 1 block high. How much higher is the first platform?
  3. Mario can jump 2 blocks. How far can he jump to reach the next platform?
  4. You want Mario to jump 5 blocks to reach the next platform. How wide is the gap?
  5. Platform A is 4 blocks high. Platform B is 2 blocks high. How much higher is Platform A?
Answers:
  1. 4 blocks
  2. 2 blocks
  3. 2 blocks
  4. 5 blocks
  5. 2 blocks

FAQ

What is Super Mario Maker?

Super Mario Maker is a video game where you can create your own levels for Mario to play in. You can build platforms, gaps, and obstacles for Mario to jump over.

How can I use maths in Super Mario Maker?

You can use maths to measure how far Mario jumps, how high platforms are, and how to build safe routes for Mario to complete your level.

Can I play Super Mario Maker with my child?

Yes, you can play Super Mario Maker together and talk about the jumps and platforms. It's a fun way to learn maths!

What if my child makes a mistake in their level?

Mistakes are part of learning. Encourage your child to fix their level and try again. It's a great way to practice problem-solving!

How can I help my child learn more about jump distances?

You can build a small obstacle course with blocks or toys at home and talk about how far your child can jump. You can also play Super Mario Maker together and count blocks and jumps.