Number (multiplication and division): Safety in Numbers

1 - Learning Objective

Challenge level ⭐⭐⭐

(designed for children with prior knowledge of the Year 4 and Year 5 programme of study)

Learning Objective

We are learning how to solve a natural world problem by using and applying our knowledge and understanding of number, multiplication and division.

Useful prior knowledge:

  • To identify factors and common multiples
  • To recall multiplication and division facts for multiplication tables up to 12 × 12

Credit: BBC One - Life Story

Clip Description

New Zealand fur seals have a diet that primarily consists of fish, squid and octopus. These impressive seals have been known to dive as deep as 200 m (which is equivalent to about 656 feet) in search of food. Their streamlined bodies and powerful flippers make them well-adapted for efficient swimming and hunting.

In this fascinating clip, in the safety of a nursery pool, New Zealand fur seal pups are learning the skills that they will need to escape hungry predators once they return to the open ocean. Which acrobatic manoeuvres will be on show? Watch the clip to find out.

Whiteboard Number Challenge

A fur seal pup hadn’t yet mastered the art of deep diving. It could only dive to a depth of 50 m.

How far is 50 metres in feet? 

Hint: Use the conversion fact mentioned above.