A multiple-choice quiz with three options for upper elementary students. Fun questions that build thinking skills.
“I want to strengthen my thinking skills.” “I want to play a quiz that will get friends and family excited.” In times like these, multiple-choice quizzes are perfect! In this article, we introduce a wide variety of three-option quizzes for upper elementary students—from questions that deepen knowledge to fun trivia that will make you say, “Wow!” All of them are easy to use during school breaks, at home, or at small get-togethers.
If you take turns asking questions with friends or tackle them together with family, the conversation will flow and you’ll have a great time.
So, how many can you get right?
Multiple-choice quiz for upper elementary students: Fun questions that build thinking skills (1–10)
How many yen does it cost to make 1 yen?
- 1 yen
- 3 yen
- 5 yen
See the answer
3 yen
It is said that it costs about 3 yen to produce a 1-yen coin. This is because the total includes the cost of aluminum, as well as the machinery, labor, energy, and other expenses required in the manufacturing process. Although it appears to be worth only 1 yen, in reality it incurs a higher cost.
Why are houseplants placed in banks?
- To use as a reference for the robber's height
- To calm the customer’s mind
- To clean the air
See the answer
To use as a reference for the robber's height
One reason potted plants or other noticeable objects are placed at bank entrances is for security. If a robbery or other incident occurs, the suspect’s height captured by security cameras can be more easily identified by comparing it to the height of the plants or other markers. Plants may blend in naturally and not stand out, but they actually serve a role as a security measure.
What do the five Olympic rings represent?
- continent
- peace
- medal
See the answer
continent
The five rings that symbolize the Olympics represent the five continents of the world: Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. The interlocking rings also embody the hope that countries around the world will come together as one to enjoy sports.
Which sweets were made during the Jomon period?
- Cookie
- pancake
- ice cream
See the answer
Cookie
Archaeological excavations have revealed that in the Jomon period, simple baked treats made from ingredients like wheat flour and acorns existed. Because their shapes and methods of preparation resemble modern cookies, they are sometimes called “Jomon cookies.” Although they were not as sweet as today’s cookies, it’s interesting that similar techniques were already appreciated back then.
Why don’t the chairs in science classrooms have backrests?
- Designer’s intention
- To reduce costs
- So that we can escape immediately when an accident occurs
See the answer
So that we can escape immediately when an accident occurs
In science labs, dangerous items like fire and chemicals are sometimes used during experiments. Therefore, backless stools are used so that, in the event of an accident, students can immediately stand up and escape. With a backrest, the body can get caught and prevent quick movement, so the use of backless seats is a safety measure.
Which country’s people developed instant ramen?
- Japan
- America
- China
See the answer
Japan
Instant ramen was developed by Momofuku Ando of Japan. It began in 1958 with the creation of the world’s first product under the name “Chicken Ramen.” Inspired by postwar food shortages, it was born from the desire to make ramen that anyone could enjoy easily, safely, and deliciously—and from there it spread around the world.
How many toes do cats have in total?
- 16 pieces
- 18 pieces
- 20 pieces
See the answer
18 pieces
Cats have five toes on each front paw and four on each hind paw, for a total of 18 toes. We often imagine the same number on the front and back paws, but in reality there’s a difference to help them climb trees and grasp objects.
What color were blackboards in the past?
- black
- white
- green
See the answer
black
When we think of blackboards, we often picture them as green nowadays, but they used to be black. It’s said that black was the standard because blackboards were originally made from black stones like slate. Chalk for blackboards is typically white, and white writing was easiest to see on a black surface, so black was the norm at the time. However, green blackboards came to be widely used because they’re gentler on the eyes and easier to see during class. You can still sense a trace of their former color in the name “blackboard.”
What is the sex of the mosquitoes that suck human blood?
- male
- female
- both
See the answer
female
Among mosquitoes, only the females need blood. Females obtain the nutrients required for egg laying from the blood of animals. Therefore, males, which do not lay eggs, have no need to suck blood. Also, females usually feed on nectar and plant juices just like males do.
How many kilometers is a full marathon?
- 42.195km
- 88.52km
- 100km
See the answer
42.195km
The marathon originally derives from a Greek soldier who supposedly ran from Marathon to Athens to report victory, and it used to be run under a rule of about 40 km. However, starting with the 1908 London Olympics, the official distance was set at 42.195 km. It seems that this decision was influenced by a request from Queen Alexandra of the United Kingdom.



