How to play Four Fours
- Type an expression that uses exactly four 4s, such as (4 + 4) ÷ 4 + 4.
- Press Check. The number it makes is ticked off in the grid.
- Try to fill the whole grid from 0 to 20.
- For a stretch, tick the box to allow the decimal .4. Press Hint if you are stuck.
Maths skills this game builds
- Order of operations and brackets
- Number sense and creativity
- Place value (making 44)
- Decimals (.4 stretch)
Tips for parents and carers
- Start with the easy ones, such as 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 = 16.
- Look for patterns: 44 ÷ 4 = 11 and 44 − 4 = 40.
- Try making numbers above 20 as a family challenge.
Using Four Fours with a group or class
- Set it as a challenge over the week. Children keep a list and bring their best finds to the next session.
- Ask: Who found a different way to make the same number?
- Works best for confident Year 5 and 6 pupils, but Year 4 can have a go at the easier numbers.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the decimal .4?
Yes, as a stretch. Tick the box. Without a decimal, 11, 13, 14, 18 and 19 cannot be made with these operations.
Can I stick the 4s together?
Yes. 44 uses two 4s.
Is the answer unique?
No. Many numbers can be made in several ways.