Math · Stage 2
The mystery-shape puzzle
A shape hides a number: ▢ × 3 = 12. Try small numbers and check until it fits!
✦ Math📘 Stage 2 · S2⏱ ~9 min🧒 Ages 6–7★ Free to start
reason about an unknown shape in a multiplication puzzle by trying small numbers and checking.
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Kavi's Secret-Shape Riddle 🔺
Kavi finds a riddle carved on a stone: "▢ groups of 3 make 12. What is the shape worth?" 🤔 "I'll be a detective," says Kavi. "Try 2: 2 × 3 = 6 — too small. Try 4: 4 × 3 = 12 — yes! The shape is 4!"
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What your child will learn
1A shape stands for a hidden numberIn a puzzle, a ▢ is a number in disguise. Fill one whole row of 5 — that row is one equal group. Tap Add 5 and ask: how many groups of 5 make 10?
2Hop to solve ▢ × 3 = 12The puzzle says ▢ groups of 3 make 12. Start at 0 and hop +3. Count the hops it takes to land exactly on 12 — that count is the mystery shape.
3Try small numbers, then checkNo pictures now — just try in order. To solve ▢ × 3 = 12, walk along the groups of 3: 3, 6, 9, 12. Stop when you reach the target and count how many steps.
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A peek inside
Solve the riddle: ▢ × 2 = 8. What number is the shape?
try 2 → 2×2=4 (small) · try 4 → 4×2=8 ✓
Try this at home: Find the shape: ▢ × 2 = 6 · ▢ × 3 = 9 · ▢ × 5 = 10
Part of Math · Stage 2 · S2 on KAVI Academy — a secular, whole-child learning platform for ages 5–12.