Your students can practise estimating the answers to addition calculations using friendly numbers with these engaging Friendly Numbers Addition Code Creator Worksheets.

This fun and hands-on resource gives students the opportunity to create their own addition problems and challenge a classmate to solve them using estimation. Using the friendly numbers strategy, the solver will round the first number in each equation to the nearest ten to estimate the total. Once all problems are solved, students will use the circled answers to decode a secret emoji description and draw it as their final task!

This activity supports the development of number sense, encourages mental computation strategies, and builds student confidence in estimation. It also provides a creative twist to traditional worksheet tasks by combining maths with communication, logic, and a touch of mystery.

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Practise rounding numbers to the nearest ten using friendly number strategies
• ✅ Estimate sums based on rounded values
• ✅ Create addition problems suitable for peer solving
• ✅ Decode clues using numerals to draw and identify emojis
• ✅ Build confidence in mental computation and mathematical communication

What’s Included

• 3 differentiated code creator worksheets
• Estimation and problem creation templates
• Emoji description code grid for decoding and drawing
• Space for both solving and illustrating answers

Materials Needed

• Printed worksheets (one per student or pair)
• Pencils, markers or coloured pencils
• Optional: whiteboard markers if using in write-and-wipe sleeves

How to Use

1. Students create a set of addition problems using the template
2. The classmate rounds the first number in each equation to the nearest ten and estimates the total
3. Selected answers are circled or highlighted and entered into the code grid
4. The resulting clues describe an emoji which must be drawn in the final space

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Use as a partner task in maths rotations to reinforce estimation and collaboration
• 💡 Assign different versions for extension or support, based on individual needs
• 💡 Combine with lessons on mental maths or real-world problem solving

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Use mini-whiteboards for a reusable version of the activity
• 💛 Display an anchor chart on rounding rules to support students creating and solving problems
• 💛 Encourage students to use different friendly number strategies and explain their reasoning

With three differentiated versions and a built-in creative twist, the Friendly Numbers Addition Code Creator Worksheets offer an interactive and flexible way to engage students in estimation, reasoning and communication skills. A perfect blend of fun and function for your next maths lesson!