Numeracy problems to solve for Key Stage 1, 2 and 3

Start with a square piece of card (8 cm x 8 cm is a convenient size) and cut it into the seven pieces shown (or you can print this page and cut out the square below).

Now try fitting the pieces together to form the shapes below. Note all seven pieces must be used.

This is an ancient Chinese puzzle which is ageless.

Using all twelve of your short straws in each case show how to make:

What other arrangements can you make using all the straws?

On his deathbed the elderly Arab gathered his three sons
around him and expressed his wish that his 23 prize camels
should be shared among them.

Arab the eldest was to have half of the camels. Azis the second son was to have a third and Abdul the youngest was to have an eight share. Initially pleased with their lot the sons soon realised they had a problem for they couldn't see how they could divide 23 camels into their allotted shares without slaughtering some of them.

In their anguish they turned to their late father's revered
brother for advice. After sleeping on the problem he
lent them one of his own prize camels thus making a total of
24 and suggested they share them out.

Ahab took 12, his half share, Azis then took 8, his third, and Abdul then took 3, his eight share, and then returned his uncle's camel to him with much thanks. Where is the catch?