Magic Squares

Hi, kids. I have had so much fun creating this e-tivity. I'm sure you'll find it enjoyable as well. This e-tivity is about magic squares, by the end you will be able to

• analyze a situation that involves number sense,
• devise a strategy to fill in a magic square
• explain your strategy to your peers
• recognize that different cultures have brought  ideas, inventions, games to the math field

Average online time: 25 min
Average offline time: 20 min


1- Getting Started
Have you heard about the term brain teaser?
Let's watch this video together. Please, turn on your speakers.

2- Discovering Magic Squares

Analyze carefully the following square.

Do you see any special pattern? (if you need a hint, click here)

Do you have an answer? Compare it with this one.

As you noticed above, a magic square is a rectangular array of numbers so that each column, row and both diagonals have the same sum. In addition, each number appears just one time.

3 - After the origins of Magic Squares

After the origins of Magic Squares on Prezi

Now, it's time for you to seach another game, idea, invention that a culture different from ours had brought to the Math field. Be ready to discuss it in class.

 

4- Let's try one out!

Are you ready for the challenge?

Choose the Magic Square you feel more comfortable with. They have been selected according to the difficulty level they entail.

Easy

Medium

Hard

5- Reporting your findings

• a) Print the puzzle you chose or copy it on your notebook, and bring it next class. Be ready to explain your teacher the strategy you chose to fill in the Magic Square.

See you around!