Overview:
Mashup Math puzzles replace traditional variables with icons to create visual algebraic equations. By solving for these symbols, students engage in algebraic thinking before formal instruction. These versatile tasks support a wide range of ability levels and can be adapted to various mathematical concepts. Use the button below to try those puzzles in a Wayground activity or visit MashupMath.com to access all of their puzzles.
Mathematical Concepts
Mashup Math puzzles provide practice for the following mathematical concepts:
  • Algebraic thinking
  • Variables and symbolic representation
  • Operations
  • Substitution
  • Mathematical properties
  • Order of operations
  • Fractions
  • Decimals
  • Negatives

There are several levels of the Mashup Math puzzles. It is beneficial to start with the beginning level puzzles to gain a basic understanding for the game. After a strong foundation has been built, feel free to choose an appropriate range of puzzles for your students. The levels include:
  • Basic: attention to basic addition and subtraction and the commutative property of addition
  • Intermediate: attention to properties of zero, the commutative property of addition, the associative property of addition, and order of operations
  • Advanced: attention to properties of zero, advanced multiplication and division, the commutative property of addition and multiplication, the associative property of addition and multiplication, and advanced order of operations
  • Mashup Math also has a paid PDF eBook that includes additional categories that focus more specifically on multiplication and division, fractions, decimals, and negatives.

Connection to the Math Practice Standards
These puzzles encourage the development of the following mathematical habits of mind:
  • Number sense
  • Reasoning strategically
  • Logical thinking
  • ​Pattern recognition
  • Working with models

Reference
https://mashupmath.com/