Bottle cap maths

Learning objectives

To play with number sentences and practice basic mathematical skills.

Write numbers 0 to 9 and basic mathematical symbols (+, ×, −, ÷, =) on bottle caps. Alternatively, pebbles or pieces of paper can be used.
Form number sentences using the bottle caps. E.g., 1 + 4 = 5.
You could make short games or challenges by seeing who can produce an answer closest to a set number or who can make the highest number with the most bottle caps.
Older students should aim to combine caps to form double- or triple-digit numbers. E.g., 51 + 23 = 74.

Use whatever resources you have to hand, including writing on paper.
Instead of writing numbers, puncture 0 to 9 holes in the bottle caps (under adult supervision) so that students can feel them.

This activity was devised by Ezgi Unlu, Plymouth Institute of Education, University of Plymouth.

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