Ever had one of those maths lessons where you need something to get everyone thinking, but the last thing you want is another worksheet to prepare? We've all been there!

A good maths warm-up can make all the difference, especially when it gets students talking, trying different strategies, and even arguing (nicely!) about who has found the best solution. This FREE Daily Target Number Game does exactly that. It's ready to play, requires no prep, and gives you an easy way to sneak in some meaningful maths thinking while your students have fun.

Free Target Number Game

Each day, students are given five numbers and a target number. The challenge is to use all five numbers exactly once, combining them with addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division to reach the target. Sounds easy enough, doesn't it? Just wait until students start finding different ways to get there!

One of my favourite things about this free maths puzzle is seeing how differently students approach the same problem. One student might spot a solution straight away, while another tries several combinations before finding one that works. Then someone puts their hand up and says, "I've got another way!" That's when the really interesting maths conversations begin. It's a great opportunity to get students explaining their thinking, comparing strategies, and learning from one another.

The game also includes an optional timer for students who enjoy a bit of a challenge, a Working Out box for recording calculations, and a solution ready to reveal when it's time to check solutions together. 

It's a handy activity for morning maths warm-ups, early finishers, partner challenges, or those moments when you have a few minutes to fill. Just display the puzzle on your interactive whiteboard and solve it as a class!

And if your students enjoy this daily puzzle, they might love having even more maths warm-ups to try! The Maths Warm Up Hub brings together a collection of engaging activities, including Target Number, Times Table Triangles, Mystery Number, Number Crunch and Magic Squares. It's a lovely way to add variety to your daily maths routine and give students something different to look forward to.

Whether you stick with the free daily puzzle or explore more activities in the Maths Warm Up Hub, it's always nice to have a few fun maths challenges up your sleeve. Give the free Target Number Game a go with your class and see where the numbers take you!

Try the FREE Daily Target Number Game using the link below. Happy Puzzling!