X Tables
Prodigy Maths

Prodigy level targets maths mission

A practical mini-mission using level targets to practise number lines through questions, examples and child-friendly challenges.

Quick answer

You can use number lines to help solve maths problems by showing jumps forward or backward, which helps you count, add, subtract, and understand numbers better.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to use number lines to solve simple addition and subtraction problems by making jumps forward or backward. Success signs:
  • You can draw a number line and make jumps to solve a problem
  • You can explain how to move forward or backward on a number line
  • You can solve addition and subtraction problems using a number line
  • You can use a number line to show how many steps you need to get from one number to another

Why this matters

Number lines are helpful tools that make maths easier to understand. Whether you are solving a problem at school or helping with your shopping, number lines can help you count, add, and subtract quickly. They are used in games, puzzles, sports, and even in video games like Prodigy. Learning to use number lines helps you build strong maths skills that will help you in the future.

How it works

A number line is a line with numbers written on it. You can use it to help with addition and subtraction by jumping along the line. To use a number line for addition:
  1. Start at the first number
  2. Jump forward (to the right) by the second number
  3. Land on the answer
To use a number line for subtraction:
  1. Start at the first number
  2. Jump backward (to the left) by the second number
  3. Land on the answer

Examples you can see

Let’s try some examples using number lines. Example 1: Addition If you have 3 apples and get 2 more, how many apples do you have?
  • Start at 3
  • Jump forward 2 steps
  • You land on 5
So, 3 + 2 = 5 Example 2: Subtraction If you have 7 cookies and eat 3, how many are left?
  • Start at 7
  • Jump backward 3 steps
  • You land on 4
So, 7 – 3 = 4 Example 3: Jumping to a number If you start at 2 and want to reach 8, how many jumps do you need?
  • Start at 2
  • Jump forward to 8
  • You make 6 jumps
So, you need 6 jumps to get from 2 to 8.

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Prodigy Maths Mission You are a brave explorer on a mission to find the treasure of Prodigy. To get to the treasure, you must solve number line puzzles along the way. Step 1: Start at 0 and jump forward 3 steps. Step 2: From your new position, jump forward 4 more steps. Step 3: Now, jump backward 2 steps. Step 4: How many steps from the start have you made in total? Answer:
  • Start at 0
  • Jump 3 steps forward → land on 3
  • Jump 4 more steps forward → land on 7
  • Jump 2 steps backward → land on 5
You have made 5 steps in total from the start. This is your first Prodigy mission. You are doing great!

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Jumping in the wrong direction. Why it happens: Confusing addition and subtraction. Fix: Remember: for addition, jump forward. For subtraction, jump backward.
  • Mistake: Counting the starting number as a jump. Why it happens: Not understanding what a jump is. Fix: A jump is a move from one number to the next, not counting the start.
  • Mistake: Forgetting to count how many jumps you make. Why it happens: Rushing through the problem. Fix: Count each jump carefully, or use your fingers to track.

Parent and carer guide

Parents and carers can help children use number lines by:
  • Using a number line at home to solve simple problems, like "If you have 5 toys and get 3 more, how many do you have?"
  • Practising jumping forward and backward on a number line with your child
  • Encouraging children to say the numbers aloud as they jump
  • Using real-life situations like walking to school or counting steps to show jumps
  • Not worrying if your child makes a mistake at first – it’s part of learning

Practice questions

  1. Start at 4 and jump forward 3 steps. What number do you land on?
  2. Start at 9 and jump backward 5 steps. What number do you land on?
  3. You start at 2 and make 6 jumps forward. What number do you land on?
  4. Start at 10 and make 4 jumps backward. What number do you land on?
  5. You start at 0 and make 7 jumps forward. What number do you land on?
Answers:
  1. 7
  2. 4
  3. 8
  4. 6
  5. 7

FAQ

What is a number line?

A number line is a straight line with numbers placed at equal intervals. It helps you see numbers in order and makes it easier to add and subtract.

How do I know which way to jump?

If you are adding, jump forward. If you are subtracting, jump backward.

Can I use a number line for bigger numbers?

Yes! You can use a number line for any numbers, even big ones. It just helps you think about how numbers work.

Why do I need to learn number lines?

Number lines help you understand how numbers work, and they make solving maths problems easier and more fun. They are also used in many games and real-life situations.

Can I draw my own number line?

Yes! You can draw a number line with any numbers you want. Try drawing one from 0 to 20 or even higher!