Obviously this task requires some understanding of addition, subtraction, the symbols and the structure of equations. A range of solutions can be found. Encourage the more able to find all the solutions and convince others that they have them all.

Ask children to examine the solutions they have found and discuss observations. For example: The numbers are all even. Some are the reverse (2+4 is like 4+2). Some are the inverse (2+4=6 and 6-2=4).

The task is easily extended through "What if" questions. What if the numbers can be used twice? What if a 1 or a 0 is included?