Entertaining Mathematical Puzzles
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on Goodreads (149)
What’s inside...
Entertaining Mathematical Puzzles is a book by Martin Gardner that presents a collection of puzzles and problems designed to stimulate and challenge the mind. The puzzles range from simple to complex, covering various areas of mathematics such as geometry, probability, logic, and number theory. Each puzzle is crafted to not only provide entertainment but also to enhance the reader's mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills. The book includes detailed explanations and solutions, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced puzzle enthusiasts. Gardner's engaging writing style and the inclusion of historical and anecdotal information make the book a delightful read for anyone interested in mathematics and its recreational aspects. Only an elementary knowledge of math is needed to enjoy this entertaining compilation of brain-teasers. It includes a mixture of old and new riddles covering a variety of mathematical money, speed, plane and solid geometry, probability, topology, tricky puzzles and more. Carefully explained solutions follow each problem. The book is illustrated with 65 black-and-white illustrations.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-15
Length
123 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What puzzle did you find most challenging, and what strategy did you use to solve it?
How do you think solving these puzzles helps your brain grow?
Can you create your own puzzle inspired by one of the puzzles in the book?
How do puzzles teach us about patience and perseverance?
Which puzzle would you like to share with a friend or family member, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to verbalize their thought process as they tackle each puzzle. This helps in developing verbal skills and logical thinking.
Celebrate small victories; if a puzzle seems too hard, breaking it down into smaller parts can make it more approachable and less daunting.
Relate the puzzles to real-life problems and situations to help your child see the practical applications of problem-solving skills.
Discuss the importance of perseverance and strategies for handling frustration when faced with difficult puzzles.
Create a puzzle-solving routine, perhaps setting aside a certain time each day or week, to work on puzzles together and discuss the solutions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Through the engaging puzzles and mathematical challenges, children are encouraged to think creatively and logically to find solutions.
Real-World Application: These skills can be applied in academic settings or in daily challenges, helping kids to navigate tasks and solve problems efficiently.
Example Lesson: Patience and Perseverance
Explanation: As some puzzles may be difficult, children learn the value of patience and the importance of persistence in achieving goals.
Real-World Application: This can help children in developing a resilient mindset, which is beneficial in learning new skills or facing life’s various obstacles.
Example Lesson: Attention to Detail
Explanation: The puzzles require careful consideration of all elements to be solved correctly, fostering a keen eye for detail in readers.
Real-World Application: This can enhance a child’s observational skills, which are crucial in academic settings, such as in science experiments or literary analysis.
Example Lesson: Mathematical Appreciation
Explanation: Children discover the joy and relevance of mathematics in everyday life through playful and intriguing puzzles.
Real-World Application: This appreciation can encourage a positive attitude towards mathematics, potentially leading to stronger performance in school math courses.
Example Lesson: Strategic Thinking
Explanation: The puzzles promote planning and strategizing as methods to achieve solutions.
Real-World Application: This lesson is valuable in tasks that involve decision making and can help in personal goal setting and problem-solving strategies in the real world.