Number (multiplication and division): Flashing Fireflies
The Problem
Akio was watching 3 fireflies flash in the darkness. After flashing once, all at the same time, he noticed that the firefly closest to him flashed after every 3 seconds. He noticed that the firefly that was the furthest away flashed after every 12 seconds and a third firefly flashed after every 8 seconds.
If Akio watched the fireflies for exactly one minute, can you calculate how many times he saw them flash at the same time?
Can you explain to a partner how you arrived at your answer? What was the same? What was different?
Did you know?
Firefly light can be yellow, green or orange. Even firefly eggs glow!
Visualising the Problem and Getting Started
Martha decided that she would get a 100 square to help solve the problem. How might this resource help Martha?
