Mathematical Tricks with Magic: An Inclusive Expression for Low Vision and Blindness
AUTHORS
Jorge Nuno Silva | jnsilva@cal.berkeley.edu | University of Lisbon
Carlota Brazilian Dias | carlotadia@gmail.com | Matias Aires Secondary School
SUMMARY
Magic is a composition of surprising effects that result from the application of diverse knowledge from the exact sciences. The project Mathematical Tricks with Magic illustrates the possibility of applying certain mathematical principles to the service of mathematics education, in particular, mathematics education for children and young people with low vision and blindness.
The experience described here refers to an initiative that involved collaborative work between children and young people with visual impairments from the Helen Keller Center and the Matias Aires Secondary School and, therefore, illustrates the results of full inclusion. This cooperation resulted in a joint show of magic tricks that enchanted and intrigued the audience.
The magicians began by involving the various members of the audience in scenarios of true illusion, followed by an explanation of their implementation and the “mathematical secret” underlying each trick performed. It is worth noting that the show featured several illusionist tricks, the effects of which result from regularities and simple principles of mathematics.
The material resources used were subject to a series of adaptations according to the needs of each of the Special Magicians. Mathematics, in its most recreational expression, has provided a Special Magician fortune-telling a person’s age and even the number of times they have fallen in love throughout their life. To understand how, just read this article carefully…
KEYWORDS
math tricks; magic; low vision; blindness; inclusion; education.
RELEVANT DATES
Published: 2013/12/21