Card Tricks as a Context for Mathematical Modelling: A Task Sequence Design and Implementation

Overview

In this seminar, the speaker introduces a magic trick called the ‘Listening Card Trick (LCT)’ and demonstrates how it has been integrated into high school mathematical modelling lessons. The case study is based on the complex mathematical modelling cycle and employs a task-sequence design framework that seamlessly blends the magic trick with mathematical concepts. This teaching design not only transforms magic performances from mere entertainment into effective educational tools but also stimulates students' curiosity and enhances their understanding of mathematical modelling.

Since 2019, this teaching case has undergone numerous trials and refinements. The teaching design related to LCT has won four awards in the Instructional Design Award Scheme by the Education and Youth Development Bureau of Macao (two Second-Class Awards and two Third-Class Awards). Additionally, this case was published by Renmin University Press (2022) and was invited for an oral presentation at the 15th International Congress on Mathematical Education (ICME-15) under TSG 3.4 (2024).

Seminar outline:
1. Explore how an ordinary magic performance can be adapted into mathematical modelling lesson materials;
2. Provide an in-depth analysis of the effectiveness of the task-sequence design framework and how it converts LCT into a teaching scenario for mathematical modelling; and
3. Discuss how the task-sequence design framework can be used in the teaching process to enhance students' engagement in mathematical modelling lessons.