Years 8 - 1120 - 45 minutes
A3 Pupil Sheet
A3 Teacher Sheet

Quick Description

An investigation of happy and sad numbers, uncovering a repeating cycle, and exploring why every digit-square sequence must eventually repeat.

Prior Knowledge

  • Square numbers
  • Forming basic algebraic expressions

Instructions

  1. Read through the attached teacher sheet, and print off a copy for reference.

  2. Explain the basic algorithm to pupils. After your explanation, and reading through the exam pupils will be ready to go.

  3. Pupils will be ready to go after your explanation but section 4 - called, No Escape? - may warrant some class discussion.

Digit Square Loops

Digit Square Loops