Maths test for 7-year-olds puzzles parents

Mathematics is not a simple subject for many people. In 2014, South Africa was reported to have the worst Maths and Science skills in the world. Out of a list of 148 countries, South Africa came 146th in the Global Information Technology Report 2014.

In America too, an international study of Maths ability in the US found that the country had poor Maths standards.


With all that being said, a Maths test question that a teacher in the UK gave to his 6 to 7-year-old learners (Grade 1 pupils in South Africa) has caused an uproar on the internet. The question even left parents scratching their heads. 

The internet had a field day trying to figure out the correct answer.

On Facebook, others argued that the question was not too hard for 6 and 7-year-old pupils. Northern Nevada Math Club wrote: “Seriously? Yes! This is appropriate for 6 & 7 yr olds. Adults: don't transferring your fear of math to kids.” 

Fanny Saputra Koeswanto wrote: “It's funny how a simple math question can spark huge debates. When I was 7, I've had harder math problem, for example: There were some people on a train, 19 get off the train and 17 get on the train. How many people are wearing white sneakers? Ha Ha Ha ...”

We have to say though, we doubt this question would be difficult for this 5-year-old Maths genius from Hawaii.

What do you think the answer is? Share with Barney.