Grade 7 Math Book · Math Stories & Mathematicians
The Man Who Counted
by Malba Tahan
Beremiz Samir, a brilliant traveler, solves puzzle after puzzle with clever math as he journeys to Baghdad. In the most famous one, he splits 35 camels among three brothers so everyone gets more than expected.
Why it's useful
A collection of story puzzles that make students think like problem solvers.
- Fractions and reasoning. Many puzzles depend on fractions of a whole.
- Clever solutions. Students see that the obvious answer isn't always right.
- Math history. The stories touch on famous mathematicians and ideas.
Try it in class or at home
- Camel puzzle. Try splitting 35 camels into 1/2, 1/3 and 1/9 before reading the solution.
- One puzzle a week. Read a chapter, pause before the solution and let students try.
- Write a puzzle. Students write their own story problem with a twist.