A head-scratching problem of landscaping with blocks that seem to appear, and disappear, depending on how they are arranged.
This is one of my favorite geometric puzzles. For years I didn’t understand how it works. Watch the video explanation below so you understand what is happening, and what is required to make it deceptive.
Performance
Setup & Preparation
- Download the black and white PDF file
- Download the color PDF file
Printing Notes:
- This is a single-sided page with nothing to glue; simply print and cut out the pieces. Be precise: it is important that you cut only on the solid black lines. If you get sloppy with your cutting, the optical illusion will not be as convincing.
Explanation
Alternate Ideas:
- Use the black-and-white pages to tell your own story instead of patio blocks. What could the squares represent? Cake? Brownies? Chocolate bars? (I think I’m hungry!)
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