Cube Numbers Exercises for 11+ Maths
19 October 2026
Understanding cube numbers
A cube number is the result of multiplying a whole number by itself twice more (for example, 2 × 2 × 2 = 8). Cube numbers are important in the 11+ as they often appear in number properties and reasoning questions.
Step-by-step practice
1. Ask your child to list the first five cube numbers (1, 8, 27, 64, 125).
2. Practise calculating cubes: What is 4 cubed? (4 × 4 × 4 = 64)
3. Spot the cube: Give a list of numbers and ask which are cube numbers (e.g., 16, 27, 36, 64).
4. Apply to word problems: If a cube has sides of 3cm, what is its volume? (3 × 3 × 3 = 27cm³).
Tips for parents
Encourage your child to recognise patterns in cube numbers and practise writing them out regularly. Use real-life examples, like finding the volume of small boxes, to make the concept more concrete. If your child struggles, break the calculation into smaller steps.
Key insight: Cube numbers can appear in both direct questions and as part of larger reasoning problems in the 11+. Being confident with them helps with speed and accuracy across the whole paper.
Keep practising
Regular, short practice sessions build confidence with cube numbers. Explore the interactive 11+ maths packages on our site for more targeted cube numbers exercises and progress tracking.
