Commentary: The Handshake Problem

 

            Of course, the handshake problem is ubiquitous -- certainly many of my students have seen it in high school.  However, it’s popular because it’s a great problem.  This handout gives a few different takes on the problem from different fictional students.  It includes a variety of strategies, and some mistakes.  I usually have students work on the problem first themselves and then later have them analyze the solutions on the handout.  The handout reinforces that there are many, interconnected ways to solve a problem, and also that solutions can be incorrect, but based on a good idea.  Students often have trouble following the trick at the end.  7/05

 

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