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Spring 2009
Math 98/198
1 Unit(s)

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About the Course:

Ayte, so there's been a slight change.... If you checked this website before, well.... scratch the second unit that I mentioned.  This course will strictly focus on Combinatorial Puzzles (some of which are listed below)

Learn to play combinatorial number puzzles and games the smart way!  Ever wonder how to solve Sudoku WITHOUT guessing or how many possible Sudoku grids there are?  In this class, students will learn basic to intermediate strategy to solve Sudoku, Target (Round) Sudoku, Nurikabe, Divide By Box, Number Crossword, and Kakuro puzzles, to name a few, and consider mathematical analysis.  The main focus will be to learn how to play smart, play safe, and play to win based on combinatorial methods for puzzles.  We will also learn how to optimize decision making for speed and efficiency.

There will be a course reader containing puzzles that must be completed for each class.  The reader will also contain relevant articles pertaining to combinatory puzzles and games.  At the end of the first unit, there will be a project where students must create their own combinatory puzzle and present it to the class.

Grades will be based on attendance, weekly assignments from the reader, and completion of the 2 projects described above. 

 NOTE: If all goes well this semester, I will teach a Combinatorial Games class as a part 2 of the Combinatorial 98/198 series.  For all intensive purposes, however, this class is strictly Combinatorial Puzzles :) 

How to Enroll:

15 upper div, 15 lower div.  If more than 30 students show up on the first day, there will be a quiz where students must complete a 9x9 Sudoku in an alloted amount of time.  Below, there are 2 available sections, one for upper div and one for lower.  Note that they are the same class.  If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to send me an email!  CCN for enrollment will be given out in class.  First day of class JANUARY 29th.  If you missed the first day, please come anyway!  I'd love to have you!