Off-the-shelf Masterclass: Magic squares

About this Masterclass

Magic squares are amazing things. A magic square is a square grid of numbers where each row, column and diagonal must add up to the same number. An exploration of number bonds and symmetry, magic squares capture something of the beauty and joy of manipulating numbers. They have a long and distinguished history, having fascinated mathematicians for centuries.

The aim of the Masterclass is for students to explore the properties of magic squares, developing their number sense, creativity and reasoning. They will begin with the challenge of constructing a 3x3 magic square before exploring the history of magic squares in art, sculpture and legend through three examples:

• The magic square carved into the façade of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
• The magic square depicted in the Durer painting “Melancolia”
• The ancient Lo Shu Square from China

Students then explore the structure of magic squares by constructing their own examples, learning simple number tricks to help them.

Length: 2 hours (see the session leader notes for ideas on how to shorten the Masterclass).

Resources needed

• 'Magic Squares' presentation (download from "Supporting documents" below)
• Student worksheets (download below)
• Paper and pencils
• Scissors or pre-prepared digit cards (see worksheet 1)
• Supporting notes; helper/session leader download from "Supporting documents" below)
• Computer and data projector
• Further details of quantities etc. can be found in Session Leader Notes