Make the Target — Building Expressions (Grade 5)
In a "make the target" puzzle, you're given some numbers and a target, and you combine the numbers with operations (+, −, ×, ÷) to hit it.
Understanding make the target
There's often more than one correct path — any valid expression that equals the target counts. The skill is flexible thinking: try an operation, see how close you get, adjust.
Seeing it in action
Worked example
Use 5, 4, and 3 to make 17.
5 × 4 = 20, then 20 − 3 = 17. → 5 × 4 − 3 = 17. (Another path: 3 × 4 + 5 = 17.)
Build an expression that lands on the target.
A common mistake, and the fix
Using a number twice, or bringing in a new one.
With 5, 4 and 3, 5 × 4 − 3 = 17 uses each number once. 4 × 4 + 1 is also 17, but it uses the 4 twice and a 1 that wasn’t given.
Try a few
Use 2, 3, 4 to make 10.
one path.
Use 6, 2, 1 to make 13.
Use 8, 4, 2 to make 4.
Make the Target
A calm order-of-operations game: choose the signs, watch the steps happen in order, and add parentheses.
Try it in Numeris.
A short lesson, then practice with feedback on every answer.
Put the reasoning on paper.
Try six fraction, angle, perimeter and area questions with explained answers, for grades 4–6.
Free printable · 3 pagesText version (screen-reader friendly): Draw it. Explain it. Math sample
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