Just food for thought.

Whether integrated into, or simply used at the end of, the current event, NO ADDITIONAL WORK BY TEACHERS IS NEEDED. I can even select the puzzles if you like. Puzzle difficulty can be adjusted by the number of clues given.

I’ve compiled a number of separate math logic puzzles such as magic squares, triangles and others, crossmath, etc.

Integrating Puzzles: My own thought is to give each group “Pirate Puzzle Cash” cards when they come to pick up their first question. I see two ways to do all of this. 1) Start with 3 Cash Cards. If they solve a puzzle, they are handed back the Cash Card to use again. or 2) Limit the total number of Cash Cards they receive (thus, the number of puzzles).

They have 1 try to solve each puzzle. Each of puzzle is worth 3 (4?) points. Red chips are given for each solved puzzle.

Alternative: Add puzzles (or a puzzle) to the end of the event.

Whether integrating or using them at the end, a separate Puzzle Station Answer Checker is needed. While puzzle answer keys are provided, most puzzles have a variety of solutions, so it takes someone quick at recognizing the right answer.

A sample Magic Square is shown.

Each would be worth more points than 1 and 2 as done for standard questions now. (We tested 5 points for the 5th grade, but I think 3 or 4 is more appropriate. Groups only get one try.)

Other Possibilities For Consideration

Challenges and Games would change the normal event quite a bit, but I like the idea behind their use just the same.

Challenges are more Strategic games, and the others are more Math Practice games. The original idea was to have groups work on Challenges to develop a winning strategy, and then challenge groups other groups or classes (best of 3 games).