Visit the robot factory where you will mix and match various body parts to build a robot.

Fill in the blank in the equation to balance the addition sums. In this interactive game, students will use their understanding of equality and number facts to complete equations like 6 + ___ = 4 + 8. Each correct answer unlocks a new robot part to add to their custom creation, giving students a fun and engaging way to practise mental maths and reasoning with numbers to 20.

Who will build the ultimate robot while mastering balancing equations?

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Solve missing number problems involving balanced addition equations to 20
• ✅ Develop an understanding of the equals sign as a symbol of balance
• ✅ Strengthen fluency with number bonds and addition strategies
• ✅ Apply logical reasoning and mental maths to complete equations
• ✅ Engage in independent or collaborative learning through interactive play

How to Play:

1. Students are presented with a balanced addition equation containing a missing number (e.g. 6 + ___ = 4 + 8).
2. They must work out the correct number to complete the sum and keep both sides equal.
3. Each correct answer unlocks a robot part to add to their custom-built creation.
4. Once they have completed their robot, students can watch their finished creation celebrate their success!
5. Replay the game to build different robots and reinforce learning.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use during maths lessons focused on equations, balancing, or number bonds
• 💡 Great for Year 3–5 students learning to understand the concept of equality
• 💡 Pair with hands-on activities like balance scales or number tiles for extra support
• 💡 Replay to reinforce fluency and build deeper number sense through repetition

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Let students personalise their experience by choosing from six robot characters before the game begins
• 💛 Select the number of players or teams at the start of the game to suit individual, paired, or group play
• 💛 Send the QR code home for students to play as a consolidation or revision task

Let’s Build – Balancing Addition Sums to 20 helps students strengthen their understanding of equality while building a robot one part at a time!