Mr. P’s Parent Maths Problem of the Week

Last Week’s Problem:

Using their method, what are the missing numbers in the TWO diagrams below?

Solution

This is one of those questions where the problem looks harder than it actually is.

In Question 1, you simply add the numbers in the outer circles and divide by the total number of numbers to find the mean (average). In this case, the mean (and therefore the missing number) is 5.

In Question 2, the mean is already given. You therefore need to work backwards to find the missing number. In other words, you must determine what number needs to be placed in the outer circle so that the mean is correct. In this case, the missing number is 21.

This Week’s Problem: Term 3 Number 7

This will be my last math problem for the year. As such, I will not provide the answer and will require you to do your own research to satisfy your curiosity! Good luck and wishing you and your families a wonderful summer break.