Birthday Logic Puzzles (SPYxFAM themed)

I created this logic puzzle based on an old activity I used with my middle schoolers in Korea. It's a great way for students to practice reading comprehension, critical thinking, and grammar. I think it’s best suited for middle schoolers or low-level high school students. This puzzle may require some prep work, but it's definitely worth it for the engaging learning experience!

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🎯 Goal of the Game:

Each group must figure out which gift each character wants and the correct color of the gift box and ribbon. Using the hints provided, students must narrow down the possibilities and work out the puzzle!

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📚 Grammar Points Covered:

• (Character) wants a(n) _____.
• (Character) likes _______.
• The (gift) is in a (color) box.
• (Character 1)'s box is the same color as (Character 2)'s box.

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🛠️ How to Set Up:

1. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Split the Class into Groups:
   
   3-4 students per group works best for collaboration.

2. 📜 Explain the Puzzle:

   • Open the PowerPoint (PPTX) and go through the rules with the students. The instructions are provided in Japanese to ensure clarity.
   • There are 7 characters in the puzzle, but not every character will be used in every round.
   • Each character is receiving a birthday gift, and students must use the hints to figure out both what gift they want and what color the gift wrapping will be.
   • When a group thinks they have sorted out all the gifts and wrapping, they can call the teacher over to check their answers.
   • If they get everything correct, they move on to the next puzzle!

3. 🎒 Distribute the Materials:

   • Hand out the character puzzle boards (A3 size) to each group.
   • Provide the puzzle hint pages (A4 size). Ensure each group has a set.
   • Give each group a set of cutout items (A3 size, printed front-to-back). These include gifts, gift boxes, and ribbons.
   • Tip: If you're working with an English camp or need extra help, have the kids cut out the boxes for you to save time.

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📝 Prep Work:

• Print and Cut:
  • Character Puzzle Boards (A3) for each group.
  • Puzzle Hint Pages (A4) for each group.
  • Cutout Items (A3) — enough for 10 groups. If you have fewer groups, you can print less.
  • Answer Sheets (A4) for the teacher to use in case students need hints.

I personally laminate the materials for durability, but it's up to you!

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💡 Tips for Success:

• Make sure the students take turns reading the hints aloud to practice pronunciation.
• Encourage collaboration within groups to ensure that everyone is engaged and thinking critically.

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🎉 Enjoy the Puzzle Challenge!

This is a fantastic activity to build teamwork, problem-solving skills, and language practice. Let your students get creative with their puzzle-solving!

Happy Teaching,

CarpenterBee

Files:

Small files

PREVIEW spyxbirthday puzzles.png (897 KB)

Answers to all puzzles.pdf (445 KB)

A4 Puzzle Hint Pages (make copies for all groups).pdf (934 KB)

Medium files (requires an account to download) -

More information

A3 Character Puzzle Board.pdf (1.28 MB)

A3 Cutout Items (10 groups).pdf (2.17 MB)

PPTX Spy Birthday Puzzle (Presentation).pptx (26 MB)