Course Details

Combinatorial Games and Puzzles: Mathematical Reasoning and Strategy

Spring 2009 - Math 98/198 - Units: 1

Shortcuts:     decal.org/919

Learn to play combinatorial number puzzles and games the smart way!  Ever wonder how Sudoku works or how to beat your friends at Dots and Boxes?  In this class, students will learn basic strategy to solve Sudoku, Target (Round) Sudoku, Nurikabe, Divide By Box, Number Crossword, and Kakuro puzzles from a mathematical approach.  Additionally, in a separate unit, students will learn how to play Nim, Red and Blue Hackenbush, Northcott's Game, Domineering, and Dots and Boxes.  The focus of each unit will be to learn how to play smart, play safe, and play to win based on combinatorial methods for puzzles and for 2 player games.  We will also focus on playing strategy and how to optimize decision making for speed and efficiency in both units.

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.  I plan to have a guest speaker as well (I am trying to get Will Shortz, keep your fingers crossed!) 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.  At the end of the second unit, there will be a tournament of one of the games we learn in class (TBA).  

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

Enrollment Info:

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 the second week of class.  First day of class TBA.  For the first day of class, print out the file below.  I will post it at least 2 days before the first day of class. 

Course Contact: mell AT berkeley.edu

Faculty Sponsor: Michael Hutchings

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Course info last modified November 19, 2008. This page has been viewed 919 times.