A puzzle can offer different starting supports

A partial grid or movable cards can remove a setup demand while preserving the central deduction. Identify that reasoning goal before choosing supports, and make options available without public labels about ability.

Identify which support removes an access demand and which changes the central reasoning. Both can be useful when their purpose is clear.

Keep the thinking goal visible

A partially completed grid can preserve deduction while reducing setup demands.

Identify the central constraint. Prepare optional cues. Let learners choose support.

Support is not a lower-status task. Is the core reasoning still present?

Offer manipulatives.

Resources

• Puzzle Partner Challenge — Use the four-by-four puzzle to discuss deductions from the stated constraints.

Further reading

• Australian Curriculum Version 9 — Critical and Creative Thinking

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