Solving maths problems (KS1)

Use a number balance see-saw

This engaging activity is designed for KS1 to enhance students’ addition and subtraction skills through a practical and engaging approach! Learners will use a model of a see-saw to balance a range of numbers. They will then decide how many items need to be added or subtracted to bring the see-saw into balance.

By actively participating in this hands-on exercise, learners will gain a deeper understanding of addition and subtraction as they work to achieve equilibrium on the see-saw by carefully selecting and arranging various numbers.

This activity could be used as a main lesson to teach learners how to make a model see-saw and solve number problems using the prompts in the presentation and carried out in pairs or small groups.

To get started, download the activity sheet containing a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on building the see-saw. Additionally, we have included printable box templates for your convenience. Students can easily position these box templates onto the see-saw and then experiment by placing coins or marbles into the boxes, effectively achieving balance on the see-saw.

The engineering context
Engineers rely on problem-solving daily to find solutions to a wide array of issues. For instance, when an aerospace systems engineer is tasked with determining the amount of cargo that can be loaded onto a rocket bound for a space station, they will skilfully adjust the contents, either adding or removing items, to ensure that the cargo meets the precise weight requirement.

Suggested learning outcomes
By the end of this activity, students will be able to solve one-step problems that involve addition and subtraction, and they will be able to make a see-saw model and solve practical balance number problems.

Download for free!
All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable so that you can tailor them to your students and your schools’ needs.

The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, helpful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

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