Concept 4 of 5
Balance Puzzles
Today's big idea
One big equals many small
Apple = 2 bananas × 3 = 6.
How it works
👀 What's going on?
On a balance, if one big block sits level with three small ones, the block must weigh as much as those three together. That simple truth cracks a whole family of puzzles.
💡 Here's the trick
Look at the balance above. One big item weighs the same as several small items. If you know what one small item weighs, multiply to find the big one.
- 1.Count how many small items balance the big one.
- 2.Read the weight of one small item.
- 3.Multiply: that many small items gives the big item's weight.
✍️ Try it
One apple balances 2 bananas. Each banana weighs 3. How much does the apple weigh? The apple equals 2 bananas, and each banana is 3, so the apple is 2 × 3 = 6.
⚠️ Watch out
The two sides are equal, not added together. The big item weighs the same as the small ones on the other side — you find its weight by multiplying, not by adding the big item in too.
See it in action
⚡ Time to play!
The two sides weigh the same. Use the small item's value to find the big one.
BALANCE · ROUND 1 OF 3
One 🍌 weighs 3.
How much does one 🍎 weigh?
Quick check
✅ VERIFICATION
One box balances 3 balls. Each ball weighs 2. How much does the box weigh?
⚡ Finish the activity above first to answer.
Keep going!
Up next: Number Pyramids
3 + 6 = 9; 9 − 3 = 6.