MATH 13
The Mathematics of SET (and other games) Winter 2019

This is not the current course catalog

Class Details

SET is a popular game where players try to find certain collections of three cards, which share or fail to share properties like color, shape, and number. This seemingly simple game gives rise to an incredibly variety of mathematical ideas. These range from counting and probability, to the behavior of lines in strange models of geometry. Throughout this class we’ll study these mathematical ideas, as well as those coming from other mathematically interesting games (and we’ll of course play lots of SET and other games!). Previous experience with SET or with mathematics is not required! We will be meeting for 6 hours per week in class. Outside-of-class work will include readings (from the book “The Joy of SET” and short mathematical readings relevant to other board games), learning and practicing other mathematically relevant board games, working on small problem sets, and as a final project designing a new game based on mathematical ideas. These final projects will be showcased in a board game night at the end of Winter Study.
The Class: Format: afternoons
Limit: 15
Grading: pass/fail only
Requirements/Evaluation: final project; small problem sets
Prerequisites: none
Enrollment Preferences: preference given to students with less mathematical background
Materials/Lab Fee: cost of books
Attributes: EXPE Experiential Education Courses

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