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Here are two “arithmetrick” challenges in which students learn to perform card tricks and then are challenged to explain the math behind them.
The first trick is easier to explain than the second one, but both are easily adaptable for use at many levels. The tutorial slide shows, which include hints for helping students figure out the math, are designed for use with 2nd-5th grade gifted pull-out classes.
THE SUM FUN CARD TRICK and THE MATH BEHIND IT
(Grades 2-4) A deck of cards is all that’s needed for this trick, although younger students might need paper and pencil for adding. Older students should be able to mentally total their cards, which is the only skill needed. To learn the trick, you can share either the video below or this slide show. A teacher’s page can be requested here (subscribers have already received). The purpose of the lesson- and the greatest challenge- is to help students produce clear explanations of how the math makes the card trick work every time. It’s worth spending some time and effort eliciting concise and clear wording from students.
THE MIND READER CARD TRICK and THE MATH BEHIND IT
(Grades 3 – 5) This trick involves guessing someone’s card, both the number and suit, after having your volunteer work through some simple computations.
To perform it, you need a deck of cards, paper, and a pencil. Younger students might need calculators to help with multiplication and subtraction. Again, students can view the video below or you can share the slide show which guides students through thinking about the math behind the trick. Included in the tutorial is a reference to Hands-On Equations, a program many teachers in gifted programs use, but students do not need to be familiar with H.O.E. methods.
If you try this with your students, leave a comment and let us know if the students were able to clearly explain the math!
I cannot thank you enough for these wonderful, digital resources for my gifted students! I’m so excited to try them, and also thrilled I found your site 🙂
THAT keeps me going, Kathryn! Thank you for your kind words. It is gratifying to hear that the site is helping you!