MATH CIRCLE ACTIVITY 3 The Tower of Hanoi Puzzle

 MATH CIRCLE

ACTIVITY 3
The Tower of Hanoi Puzzle

DATE: 25-07-2025 DAY: Friday

Objective:

To enhance students’ comprehension of recursive thinking, logical analysis, and strategic problem-solving through the Tower of Hanoi challenge.

Purpose:

To investigate the underlying patterns of the Tower of Hanoi puzzle, recognize its recursive nature, and cultivate effective thinking strategies in problem-solving.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this activity, students will be able to:

• Recognize recurring patterns in recursive tasks.

• Strengthen logical reasoning and forward-thinking skills.

• Comprehend the mathematical formula for the least number of moves required:
  Minimum Moves=2ⁿ - 1 (n=number of discs)

• Connect the puzzle to real-life applications such as algorithm design and data handling in computer science.

• Skills Developed: Recursion , Strategic thinking ,Logical problem-solving
  Rules of the Puzzle:

• Move only one disc at a time.

• A larger disc must never be placed over a smaller one.

• All discs must be transferred from the first rod to the third rod using the middle one as a helper.

Procedure:

• Begin with all discs arranged on the starting rod.

• Students attempt to shift all the discs to the target rod by following the rules.
  As the number of discs increases, encourage students to observe patterns and think 

• recursively.Discuss the minimum number of steps required and how it increases exponentially.

•     

Teacher’s Observations:

• This hands-on activity successfully introduced the concept of recursion in a practical, interactive way.

• Students remained engaged throughout, using critical thinking to plan each move.

•  It was especially rewarding to see them independently discover the formula for calculating the minimum number of steps.

•  Overall, this activity served as a great platform to reinforce patience and strategic planning.

Student’s Reflections:
I found this puzzle really interesting! It pushed me to think before each move.

•  Initially I struggled, but with more practice, I began to spot patterns that made solving easier.

•  It was challenging, especially with more discs, but I enjoyed the logical thinking it required.

 I am thankful to the PM SHRI Scheme for giving me this opportunity to learn in a fun and meaningful way
-By