Pupils work through a sequence of clues to unlock three padlock codes before tackling a final code using formal written methods and multiplication and division problems. Three levels of differentiation run throughout, making it workable across mixed-ability classes without additional preparation.

The resource opens with a PowerPoint warm-up, a practice code breaker and a spot-the-mistake task before the main activity begins.

What’s included:

• PowerPoint with warm-up activity, practice code breaker and spot-the-mistake task
• Code breaker activity sheet with three levels of differentiation, cracking three padlock codes before a final code using formal written methods and multiplication and division problems
• Three differentiated challenges:

Challenge 1: spot the mistakes in addition and subtraction problems
Challenge 2: solve a series of maths riddles
Challenge 3: solve a range of clues to complete a mystery keypad
Answers included

All activity sheets and answers provided as downloadable PDF files

A self-contained UKS2 maths code breaker – structured, differentiated and ready to run.