Number (place value): Fairy Rings
The Problem
Have you ever come across a fairy ring in a field or a woodland? Fairy rings consist of mushrooms (or toadstools) growing out of the ground in an almost perfect circle. The grass or other vegetation at the centre of a fairy ring may wither and die.
The map opposite shows the location of four fairy rings in a farmer’s field. Altogether there were 50 mushrooms growing in this field.
Can you use the clues to draw the correct number of mushrooms in each of the four fairy rings?
Are there any other possible solutions? How do you know?
Did you know?
Different countries have their own folklore tales about fairy rings. In folklore, fairy rings were caused by fairies or elves dancing in a circle. It was said that if humans joined in the dance, they would be punished by the fairies!
Visualising the Problem and Getting Started
Ben said, “I will draw 12 mushrooms in fairy ring A.” What mistake has Ben made?
Bella said, “I will draw 15 mushrooms in fairy ring B.” What mistake has Bella made?
