Math Magic

Name: Siel Snowden

Grade: 4th grade
Lesson Title/Topic: Numbers and Operations
Common Core Standards:
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NBT.B.4
Fluently add and subtract multi-digit whole numbers using the standard algorithm.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NBT.B.5
Multiply a whole number of up to four digits by a one-digit whole number, and multiply two
two-digit numbers, using strategies based on place value and the properties of operations.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NBT.B.6
Find whole-number quotients and remainders with up to four-digit dividends and one-digit
divisors, using strategies based on place value, the properties of operations, and/or the
relationship between multiplication and division.
Precision Standards:
CCSS.MATH.PRACTICE.MP4 Model with mathematics.
CCSS.MATH.PRACTICE.MP1 Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.
Learning Objectives (measurable):
1. SWBAT accurately perform basic addition, multiplication, subtraction, and division
algorithms on numbers, using mental math when appropriate
2. SWBAT present a numerical operation to an audience in a way that is entertaining,
understandable, and uses good communication skills
Probing Questions
1. What preconceived ideas might students have about math that might make them
reluctant learners?
2. How can the idea of presenting mathematical concepts in the form of a magic trick
influence students attitudes toward math?
3. How is a student's ability to perform and/or teach a math concept to another student or
an audience a good indication of their comprehension?
Overview
This lesson is designed as a fun and engaging way for fourth-grade students to practice
a variety of number operations and to build connections between classroom math and
real-world math. This lesson would work best at the summation of a unit or at the end of the
school year.

Vocabulary
No specific vocabulary is required for this lesson. Students should be familiar with basic
terms related to number operations.

Materials:
1. Mathemagic Number Tricks by Lynda Colgan (with pages photocopied and printed for
students to study)
2. Any supplies needed for individual tricks
Pre-Assessment
There is no pre-assessment for this lesson since it is designed to be used at the end of a
unit, either as an assessment or as an assessment review.
Lesson Sequence
1. The teacher will introduce the lesson by performing a math magic trick from the book
on the class. Students will work in groups to discuss the trick and see if they can figure
out mathematically why it worked.
2. The class will regroup to discuss their theories. The teacher will perform the trick again
and explain the secret. Modeling
3. Working individually or in pairs (if an activity calls for pairs of students), students will
choose a magic trick from the book. Or, the teacher will assign students number tricks
based on their abilities as a means of differentiating instruction.
4. Students will read over their magic trick to make sure they understand it. They will ask
the teacher for clarification if they are confused. Guided Practice
5. Students will practice their trick on staff, parents and classmates until they are prepared
to perform it. The teacher will assist students as needed.
6. The class will hold a math magic show where each student will present their magic trick
to an audience (such as another class of students or a group of parents and family
members). Independent Practice
Assessment
1. The teacher will assess each student's understanding of the concept based on their
ability to replicate the trick and perform it in front of an audience.
Accommodations
1. Instead of allowing students to pick their own number tricks, the teacher can assign
number tricks to different students based on the difficulty of the trick and each students
ability level.
2. Students who are ESOL learners can use technological resources, such as a smart
board, to demonstrate their number trick without relying too heavily on language.

Extensions
1. Students can create their own math magic guides complete with step-by-step
instructions, illustrations, and mathematical explanations.
2. Students can travel to a nursing home or hospital and perform their magic tricks for
residents. This allows them to combine math with community service.
Resources
Colgan, L., & Swenson, S. (2011). Mathemagic!: Number tricks. Toronto: Kids Can Press.