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Polya'S Method: Magic Squares

- Magic squares are grids where the sums of each row, column and diagonal are equal. This "magic constant" makes them mathematically interesting puzzles. - The earliest known magic square came from ancient China, found on the back of a turtle. It was called "Lo Shu" after the river. - Polya's method is a systematic approach to problem solving with steps like understanding the problem, devising a plan, carrying it out, and reviewing. It can help solve magic squares through patterns or working backwards.

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Barbie Bleu
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214 views4 pages

Polya'S Method: Magic Squares

- Magic squares are grids where the sums of each row, column and diagonal are equal. This "magic constant" makes them mathematically interesting puzzles. - The earliest known magic square came from ancient China, found on the back of a turtle. It was called "Lo Shu" after the river. - Polya's method is a systematic approach to problem solving with steps like understanding the problem, devising a plan, carrying it out, and reviewing. It can help solve magic squares through patterns or working backwards.

Uploaded by

Barbie Bleu
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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POLYA’S METHOD

MAGIC SQUARES
MAGIC SQUARES

Definition:
- Magic squares are called ‘magic’ because each row, column and diagonal in the square has
the same sum, called the magic constant.
- Magic squares can be 3 x 3 or even as big as a 16 x 16 square.
- It is still used today as challenging math puzzles,

History of Magic Squares


 According to an ancient Chinese legend, the first magic square is said to have been found by
the emperor on the back of the turtle.
 The turtle was named “Lo Shu”. ‘Lo’ is the name of the river and ‘Shu’ is the word for books,
so the name can be translated to ‘the book of Lo River’.

Examples of Magic Squares

The 4x4 Magic Square

The 16x16 Magic Square of Benjamin Franklin


POLYA’S METHOD
- is simply a systematic process used to reach a solution to a problem.

1. Understanding the Problem


- We are given that there are array of numbers. We must place the numbers in each box so
that each row, column, and diagonal add up to the same number. But, we must only use each
number once

2. Devise a Plan
- Look for a pattern
- Review similar problems
- Use guessing and checking
- Work backwards
- Identify a sub-goal

3. Carry out the Plan


-Keep a records of your steps and implement the strategies or plan you have made.

4. Look Back
-Check your work.

Inductive Reasoning
-reaching conclusion based off of a series of observation. A conclusion that is reached by
inductive reasoning may or may not be valid.

Deductive Reasoning
-process of reaching conclusions based on previously known facts. The conclusions reached
by this type of reasoning are valid and can be relied on.

Solving a 3x3 Magic Square

1. List the nine consecutive numbers in order.


2. Add them up then divide by three.
3. The very middle number in a consecutive number list, also known as the median, is the
number for the middle square.
4. Apply the rules in the magic square solution diagram.
5. Fill in the rest of the boxes with the remaining numbers.

3x3 Magic
Square Solution
Diagram
Solving an Odd-Numbered Magic Square:
1. Calculate the Constant using the formula:
Magic Constant= n[n^2+1/2]
Where n is the number of
rows or columns
2. Place the number 1 in the center
box on top of the row.
3. Fill in the remaining numbers using an up-one, right-one pattern.

Solving a Doubly Even Magic Squares (4x4 Magic Square)

1. Understand what a doubly even square is.


2. Calculate the magic constant.
3. Create Highlights A-D.
4. Create the Central Highlight.
5. Fill in the magic square, but only in Highlighted areas.
6. Fill in the rest of the magic square by counting backwards.

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