Looking for a creative and meaningful way to reinforce the relationship between multiplication and division? The Inverse Two-Digit by One-Digit Multiply & Divide Emoji Code Creator Worksheets bring together mathematical fluency, critical thinking, and a touch of artistic flair! This resource encourages students to use the inverse relationship between operations to both construct and solve problems—before unveiling a mystery emoji through a fun decoding activity.

Students begin by creating a range of multiplication and division number sentences using two-digit by one-digit problems. Some of their answers will be circled or highlighted—these are the key numbers that will later form a code. Using a provided emoji key, the code helps their partner identify which features to include when drawing a mystery emoji. This peer-to-peer task not only deepens understanding of inverse operations but also adds an engaging and social element to maths learning.

The activity is designed to support students working at different levels. There are three differentiated versions of the worksheet: Version 1 provides a simpler structure with fewer number sentences; Version 2 requires additional calculations and strategic selection of code numbers; and Version 3 adds an extra challenge by asking students to write a word problem that corresponds with their code. This allows you to tailor the activity to suit individual learning needs and progressively extend thinking across your class.

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Practise multiplication and division using two-digit by one-digit numbers
• ✅ Understand and apply the inverse relationship between operations
• ✅ Engage in peer-led problem-solving and critical thinking
• ✅ Interpret and apply a code system to complete a visual drawing

What’s Included

• 3 differentiated worksheets to suit varied student levels
• Emoji code bank with symbols and feature descriptors
• Space for students to write and solve their own problems
• Optional word problem extension on Version 3

Materials Needed

• Printed worksheets (select appropriate version)
• Pencils or coloured markers
• Calculators (optional, for checking work)
• Spare paper for working out or drafting word problems

How to Use

1. Introduce or review the inverse relationship between multiplication and division
2. Select the worksheet version best suited to each student or group
3. Students create number sentences, identify key answers, and form their emoji code
4. Pairs swap sheets and use the emoji code to draw the mystery face
5. Encourage students to compare solutions and discuss strategies

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Use in a maths rotation as a partner task focused on problem creation
• 💡 Incorporate as a formative assessment to gauge understanding of inverse operations
• 💡 Add to a maths extension pack for early finishers
• 💡 Create a class display of completed emoji faces and problem sets

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Model the first few steps with the class, especially how to use the emoji code
• 💛 Encourage neat working out to make peer review easier and more effective
• 💛 Laminate emoji code pages so they can be reused year after year

By combining strategy, computation, and creativity, this resource provides a powerful way for students to consolidate their understanding of multiplication and division through the inverse relationship—all while having fun!