This month's puzzle requires a slight twist in thinking to solve. It may prove difficult for some students, but those with a creative bent and/or those who have developed persistence should be able to prevail and discover a solution. Some math educators disparage puzzles like Turkey Trappings for two reasons. First, they believe that solving these puzzles doesn't require mathematical thinking or insight, only the ability to look at things in a slightly different way. Second, they see these kinds of problems as too frustrating for students and are worried that this frustration may lead to negative feelings about math. While I understand these concerns, I believe that these types of puzzles still have a place in a good math program. Although no great mathematical insight is needed to solve these puzzles, divergent thinking and persistence are required. These traits are often sorely lacking in students and teachers alike and need to be developed if one is to become a good problem solver. Tackling puzzles like this one helps develop these important traits.

In Turkey Trappings, students are challenged to add two squares to the illustration so that the pen is divided into nine separate compartments, each containing one turkey. As mentioned above, a slight twist in one's thinking is required to solve Turkey Trappings.

This puzzle, as is the case with most Puzzle Corner activities, is meant to be done individually. I normally introduce the puzzle for the week at the end of the math period on Monday and ask students to work on it whenever they have time during the course of the week-reminding them not to give others their answers. On Friday I allow students who have solved the problem to share their solutions and approaches with the rest of the class. Over the years I have had a few students who don't want to hear the solution if they haven't solved the puzzle, so I let them step out of the room during this discussion time. If some of your students catch the "problem solving bug" they too might opt to step outside instead of being robbed of the "joy of discovery" by listening to another student's solution. If this happens, you'll know that you've created a successful problem-solving environment!

I hope that you and your student's will enjoy this puzzle. Have fun!