Weekly Brain Teaser #1: Can You Crack the Code?

At Brightpath Maths Academy, we believe mathematics is about far more than getting the right answer.

It's about spotting patterns, thinking logically, trying different strategies and learning from mistakes.

That's why we'll be sharing a regular brain teasers designed to challenge curious young mathematicians and encourage families to solve problems together.

Have a go before reading the solution!

🧩 The Puzzle

Each shape represents a different number.

🟩 + 🟩 + 🟩 = 45

🟩 + 🔵 + 🔵 = 35

🔵 + 🔺 + 🔺 = 25

What is:

🟩 + 🔵 × 🔺 = ?

(Remember the order of operations! Multiplication comes before addition.)

💡 Hint

Before calculating the final line, work out the value of each shape one row at a time.

Don't rush!

✅ Solution (only look when you’re ready!)

Let's solve it together.

Step 1

🟩 + 🟩 + 🟩 = 45

Each 🟩 must equal:

45 ÷ 3 = 15

So:

🟩 = 15

Step 2

15 + 🔵 + 🔵 = 35

🔵 + 🔵 = 20

🔵 = 10

Step 3

10 + 🔺 + 🔺 = 25

🔺 + 🔺 = 15

🔺 = 7.5

Final Question

🟩 + 🔵 × 🔺

= 15 + (10 × 7.5)

= 15 + 75

= 90

Answer: 90

Why This Puzzle Matters

This puzzle isn't really about arithmetic.

It's about:

• recognising patterns

• solving problems step by step

• checking your thinking

• remembering the order of operations

• staying persistent when something looks difficult

These are exactly the skills that help children become confident mathematicians.

Try This at Home

Can you create your own shape puzzle?

Choose three shapes.

Assign each one a secret value.

Write three clues for a family member and see if they can solve it!

Creating puzzles is just as valuable as solving them.

Brightpath Tip

💡 Children who regularly solve puzzles develop perseverance, logical reasoning and flexible thinking—skills that transfer directly into the mathematics classroom.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes the best maths lessons don't come from a textbook.

They come from slowing down, thinking carefully and enjoying the challenge.

We'll be back next week with another brain teaser!