How Much Is In My Pocket?

‘How Much Is In My Pocket?’ is a low-prep, classroom-friendly activity that teaches problem-solving, logical reasoning, and number sense.

How It Works

Keep some coins or notes in your pocket without showing the class. Tell the students they’ve got 8 yes/no questions to figure out the amount. Encourage them to start with broad questions (‘Less than $1?’) then get more specific (‘Divisible by 5?’). Keep track of answers on the board if needed. After 8 questions, they make their guesses, then reveal the amount.

For Example:

Is it less than $1?

Is it an even number of cents?

Is it divisible by 5 cents?

Is it more than 50 cents?

Does it have two digits in the cents?

Does it have a 7 or 8 in the tens place?

Is it greater than 75 cents?

Does it start with an odd number?

Why It's So Good

• Low prep, no worksheets or special materials needed, just coins or notes

• Engaging, keeps the whole class involved and thinking

• Quick to run, only 5–10 minutes per round, perfect as a warm-up

• Teaches number sense, reinforces understanding of money, place value, and divisibility

• Replayable, easy to run multiple rounds with different amounts

A fast, fun round of this game can lift engagement and sharpen thinking, turning a simple maths warm-up into a favourite activity.