Years 2–6 · Calculation and inverse reasoning

Target Lab

Test which calculation reaches the target—and explain why.

Play Target Lab

Round 1 of 3

Year

Mode

Challenge code Share the same four digits to get the same challenge.

Calm modeQuieter promptsNothing is timed either way.

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Take your time.

For a target of 24, 6 × 4 works because six groups of four make 24.

Ask for a different calculation that reaches the same target.

Year rangeYears 2–6 (KS1–KS2)

Learning objectiveSelect and evaluate an efficient calculation to reach a given whole-number target.

DifficultyOperands increase from addition facts to multiplication and two-step expressions.

Teaching notes and next steps

Useful prerequisite: Recall basic addition and subtraction facts.
Representation: A target number is paired with four complete calculation cards.
Common misconception: Applying the operation sign to only part of an expression or estimating instead of evaluating.
Transfer prompt: Ask for a different calculation that reaches the same target.
Adult next step: Value an efficient explanation as much as a correct selection.

Reviewed 2026-08-14 by TheLearnDen Editorial Team. The activity does not ask for a name, email address, school, location or account.