The equation made of matchsticks is not correct yet. Move exactly ONE matchstick to a different spot to make it true.
Calculate and try it out: what happens if you move a matchstick somewhere else? Then write the correct equation below.
Example
- 1 + 5 = 6
- 3 + 4 = 7
For parents
What does this exercise practice?
The matchstick puzzle links mental arithmetic with spatial reasoning, training children to mentally try out several possible solutions before committing.
Common pitfalls
Children often confuse "removing a matchstick" with "adding a matchstick". The key is that the total number of matchsticks stays the same, only their place changes.
How to practice at home
Build a wrong calculation together out of real matchsticks (unlit!) or toothpicks and search together for the one move that fixes it.
Related: Riddle