Rubik’s Cube
Posted by Lisa Haseltine43,252,003,274,489,856,000 is the number of possible arrangements of the Rubik’s Cube, so a solution requires an algorithm, or a sequence of procedures. The fifth graders in Mr. Werner’s math class started this project as an entertaining way to practice reading and following written directions. The students were not expected to memorize the moves, but just to be able to follow the sequences carefully to produce the desired results.
Invented in 1974 by Ernö Rubik, a Hungarian architect who wanted a working model to demonstrate three-dimensional geometry, the Rubik’s Cube became the world’s best selling toy. National and international ‘speedcubing’ championships have been held regularly since 2003. The World Cube Association now runs competitions where players have to solve the Cube one-handed, as well as having to solve the Cube using only your feet. There is even a competition where players have to solve the Cube as quickly as possible blindfolded!
At a recent assembly, thirty students in grades 5 through 8 demonstrated that many of them can solve the cube (with instructions) in three minutes. The current world record, set in November 2015, is 4.9 seconds! You can watch the video of this amazing feat here. Watch a robot that can solve the cube in less than 2 seconds!
While the original purpose of our classroom activity was to practice understanding and following sequential instructions, this activity proved valuable in other ways. In order to be successful, the students needed to be focused and attentive. They demonstrated persistence and determination, and strengthened their visual memory and pattern recognition skills. They are quite proud of their accomplishment and eager to demonstrate their skills.
Want to learn how to solve the cube? You can download the instructions here.
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