How To

How to Make a Dollar Using 30 Coins

Contributor

By Daniella Nicole
eHow Contributing Writer

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(2 Ratings)

Teaching a child how to make a dollar with 30 coins is not just a brain teaser. The child will also learn about math, counting and money values. Having a greater amount of coins in the jar than is required allows the child to experiment with various ways of making one dollar. In fact, if only the amounts required are given to the child, it will defeat the purpose of the game. If the child is successful in the answer, reward them with the dollar made of the 30 coins.

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Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Clear jar to hold coins
25 pennies
2 quarters
2 dimes
1 nickel
10 to 15 other assorted coins
Calculator (optional)
Paper and pencil (optional)

Step 1

Present the challenge to the child. If they can make one dollar from exactly 30 coins, they may have the dollar to buy a treat or toy.
Step 2

Give the child the jar filled with coins. Allow the child to pour them out onto a table or other work surface.
Step 3

Give the child encouragement as they experiment with various coin configurations. Help them keep track of what the coins add up to as well as how many they have used of the 30 needed.
Step 4

Give them hints if they become frustrated. If they are feeling discouraged, tell them each time they have any of the group of coins in the correct amount so they may then focus on the other coins involved.
Step 5

Congratulate the child when they solve the challenge and take them out to buy their treat or toy. The correct answer is: 25 pennies, 1 nickel, 2 dimes, and 2 quarters.

Tips & Warnings

One hint or requirement you can give for this game is that every coin amount must be used at least once.
Another hint is that since so many coins are needed, they may want to use a lot of the lesser value coins and fewer of the higher value coins.
Allow the child to use a calculator or paper and pencil if that will help them solve the challenge.
Do not solve the challenge for the child. The point of this challenge is to be a fun educational game that teaches the child and encourages them in their skills.
Do not criticize the child if they are struggling or cannot figure this out.
When presenting this challenge to a child, be sure you allow ample time for them to solve it. Also, ensure that you are able to take them to purchase their treat or toy afterwards so they do not feel discouraged or let down.