Code Breaker Challenge - Place Value

The Challenge
This Code Breaker Challenge is made up of 4 challenge sheets, each containing three sets of questions about place value as well as an instruction section written in code. There is also a final challenge sheet for obtaining the master lock key.

The Setup
Ideally, the Code Breaker Challenge requires a box which can be locked with four three digit combination locks and one padlock. See the attached picture as an idea for the setup. It could however be done without this, but wouldn’t be quite as fun for the children.

How to Use

1. Fill the box with treasure, for example some sweets and then setup the combinations on each of the locks and lock the box with them and the master lock.
2. Split the class up into four teams and provide each team with one of the challenge sheets.
3. Start a timer of approximately 30 minutes (depending on the ability and age of your class).
4. Each team works together to solve the challenge and tell the teacher the three digit code. If they got it correct, they may open their lock. If not, then they will need to check their answers.
5. Once all four combination locks have been opened, or even after the first team has finished, provide the master lock challenge. If they complete it correctly and within the time, they can then have the master lock key to open the treasure box.

Great Fun!
The children absolutely love the Code Breaker Challenge and we repeat it at the end of every major maths unit. They really need to work together and check their work carefully if they are to succeed in opening the box and retrieving the treasure within.

The documents is fully editable so you can use it as a template to create your own challenges if you like. You can also use it for other subjects as well, but it definitely lends itself to maths the most.

I hope you and your children enjoy it as much as mine do!

This challenge is one in many. Please take a look at my shop for other units. Thank you.