Your job is to find the weight of each Wangdoodle using the information provided by the scales. To be successful, you will have to make sure that the weight you assign to each Wangdoodle works on each scale. This activity is a fun but challenging introduction to multiple algebraic equations.
The goal is to choose a number that all 4 sides of the frame can add up to and arrange the cards to do this. Some numbers are possible some numbers are not. This puzzle has been selected as it allows students of all abilities to have a go as the maths involved is not difficult. The challenge should be to find a method of determining what numbers can be used as the common total amount and then how to make finding the layout much easier. The resource provided here allows the puzzle to be demonstrated easily and can also allow whole class discussion of how to approach the problem. Clicking on one card and then another causes them to swap places. The resource totals the different lines automatically. The original wording of the puzzle can be made to appear by clicking on the question mark button.