Differentiated Maths Starter - Using All four...

A rich, truly differentiated Number task designed for KS3–KS4 classrooms, but accessible to KS2.

Students must use all four given integers to explore rearrangement, operations and structure. The task begins with accessible entry points (largest number through rearrangement only), before progressing to multi-step problem solving using the four operations, and finally extending into deeper reasoning about negative numbers and possible outcomes.

This resource supports:

Number fluency and place value

Use of the four operations

Mathematical reasoning and conjecture

Systematic working

Exploration of positive and negative results

The open structure allows for genuine differentiation. Learners can access the first task through basic number knowledge, making it suitable for upper KS2 and SEND learners, while the later challenges stretch into algebraic thinking and structured problem solving appropriate for KS3 and higher-attaining KS4 students.

The task encourages discussion, multiple methods and justification, making it ideal for starters, stretch and challenge, intervention, or independent exploration.

Minimal preparation required — project or print and explore.