Patterns and missing numbers
Grade 6 · Math
Explore numbers, spot patterns and explain how you worked it out.
Choose a game
Take your time, try a game and collect stars.
Simple formulae: find n
Solve missing number problems such as 3n = 21 and match each to its answer.
Play Simple formulae: find n
Learning about patterns and missing numbers
These Grade 6 Math games practice Simple formulae: find n. Choose a game above for a short activity, or explore the examples below before you play. The full guide for each game explains its controls, gives more examples and includes a free printable for practice away from the screen.
Talk it through
Use counters, a drawing or a number line before moving to a mental method. Ask your child to explain a choice, then change one number and try the method again.
Ask: “How could you show the same answer another way?” Give your child time to explain. Return to an example after playing and ask whether they would approach it differently.
Simple formulae: find n
In this game children solve equations and match each to the value of n that makes it true, such as 3n = 21 with n = 7. Every equation has one answer, and children can check each match by putting the number back in.
Try an example: Solve n − 4 = 9.
Add 4 to both sides: 9 + 4 = 13.
Show the answer
n = 13
What to look out for
Reading 3n as 30-something, such as 3n = 35 meaning n = 5. 3n means 3 × n, not a two-digit number.
Practice away from the screen
- Play 'I'm thinking of a number': 'I double it and add 1 and get 15. What is my number?'
Curriculum connections
Simple formulae: find n
Supports part of Common Core 6.EE.B.7: solving equations such as x + p = q and px = q. Some two-step equations go beyond Grade 6.
Common Core connection: 6.EE.B.7. This is focused practice for part of the standard.
Questions families ask
Where should we start with patterns and missing numbers?
Start with Simple formulae: find n. Look at the worked example together, then try a round. If the task feels unfamiliar, use the full game guide or its free printable before trying again.
Does this cover everything taught at this level?
No. These games provide focused practice. Grade suggestions do not replace your school’s curriculum, and any Common Core connection applies only to the skill described.