by Dave Youngs.
The Puzzle Corner activity this month is a thought puzzle
that presents an interesting paradox. Solving it will require some divergent
thinking on the part of your students. Puzzles like this one appeal to some
people, but frustrate others. It is my hope that when students solve this
puzzle, or see how it is solved by others, they will be more willing and able
to tackle other thought puzzles in the future. It has been my experience that
many students who are reluctant puzzle solvers at first become avid fans after
being exposed to puzzles on a regular basis. I have also found that, as the
teacher, my enthusiasm for puzzles was critical in helping students develop
similar enthusiasm.
Please try to solve this puzzle yourself, before giving it to
you students. This will give you an idea of what your students will be facing
when they try to make sense of the following paradox:
one costs fifty cents, you can buy 12 for
one dollar, and 312 for one dollar and fifty cents.
As unlikely as it might seem, this puzzle presents a realistic
scenario (at least in states with no sales tax) and will make complete sense,
once you figure out what objects are being bought.
Worksheet
Good luck and have fun!
