Twin Puzzles for Order of Operations
Put your knowledge of order of operations to the test with these Gemini “Twin” puzzles from prolific Japanese logic puzzle creator, Naoki Inaba.
What are Twin Puzzles?
Twin Puzzles (also known as Gemini Puzzles) are order of operations puzzles that require filling in the missing operations to make two true equations. However, the equations must be twins, so whatever symbols are entered in the first equation must also be put in the second equation in the same place.
These puzzles are perfect for encouraging critical thinking and practicing mental math and the order of operations.
Puzzle Source
These Twin Order of Operation Puzzles are the creation of prolific Japanese puzzle creator, Naoki Inaba. Inaba’s website is a treasure trove of puzzles for math teachers, but it is entirely written in Japanese.
Printable Version of Twin Puzzles for Order of Operations
These Gemini / Twin puzzles are available as a free PDF that can be downloaded from Naoki Inaba’s website.
Digital Version
Cathy Yenca has created an Amplify/Desmos Activity Builder version of these Gemini Twin puzzles.
Puzzle Solutions
Puzzle solutions are available on a password-protected solution page. I do not openly post the puzzle answer keys because one of my goals as a resource creator is to craft learning experiences for students that are non-google-able. I want teachers to be able to use these puzzles in their classrooms without the solutions being found easily on the Internet.
Please email me at sarah@mathequalslove.net for the password to the answer key database featuring all of my printable puzzles and math worksheets. I frequently have students emailing me for the answer key, so please specify in your email what school you teach at and what subjects you teach. If you do not provide these details, I will not be able to send you the password.
Not a teacher? Go ahead and send me an email as well. Just let me know what you are using the puzzles for. I am continually in awe of how many people are using these puzzles with scouting groups, with senior adults battling dementia, or as fun activities in their workplace. Just give me enough details so I know you are not a student looking for answers to the puzzle that was assigned as their homework!
