The 100 square can be used to find lots of number patterns. The children can investigate how even and odd numbers are situated in the square, how multiples of different numbers are arranged, and where square and triangular numbers are found. They are also a useful resource for many other types of maths activities.

There are two printable worksheets available:

Sheet 1 consists of an A4 page with ONE large 100 square on. This can be used as a general classroom resource, or for the activity below if you have a huge photocopying budget.

Sheet 2 consists of an A4 page with FOUR smaller 100 squares on (to save your photocopying bills!). This can be used when the children are investigating multiples:

• On one of the squares, the children should colour in the multiples of 2 in one colour. When this is done, they should look at the location of these multiples.

• On another square, they can colour in the multiples of 3.

• Repeat this activity, colouring multiples of other numbers on different squares.

• Try colouring in multiples of two numbers on one square, e.g. colour multiples of three in blue and multiples of four in yellow on the same square. On which numbers have they coloured twice, i.e. which numbers are green, and are therefore multiples of both three and four?

• Colour in square and triangular numbers on more squares. Where can they be found? Do you notice any patterns?

You could also use these activities (which were suggested by Simon Chubb):

• Try colouring in times tables patterns (2X, 3X, etc) on the 100 square but write the numbers in as a zig zag (eg top line starts 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10 but next line is 20,19,18,17,16,etc). Two worksheets based on this idea have also been produced...

  • A large worksheet can be found here.

  • A worksheet containing four smaller versions of the above 100 square can be found here.

• Try using triangular paper (great for 3X) or hexagonal, or even isometric paper.

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