Academy · French-speaking Switzerland · 8P · Mathematics
Le Carreau impossible
Backstage at the Fort Theatre, four mosaic pieces seem to change their total area. Check the dimensions and uncover the secret of this illusion.
The story
A mystery to solve
Apolline joins a backstage workshop at the Fort Theatre. Diane, the set designer, rearranges four rigid mosaic pieces from a square into what appears to be a larger rectangle. No piece is added. Study the diagrams, compare the areas and investigate the joins so Apolline can explain the trick on stage.
See 8 sample pagesInside the pack
What children practise
- Calculate and compare areas and perimeters.
- Distinguish length, perimeter and area.
- Study how shapes can be split and rearranged.
- Justify a conclusion using dimensions and diagrams.
Learning scope
Curriculum and level
Selected Swiss PER cycle 2 mathematics practice for 8P, within the shared 7P–8P progression: area, perimeter and rearranging shapes. The diagrams and printed dimensions provide the evidence; not the complete annual curriculum.
Source guidelines
Formats and delivery
What does the digital PDF include?
32 pages in A4 + US Letter, with six missions and adult answers. Download the files through Gumroad and print them at home. This purchase does not include a physical book or shipping.
Three teacher documents included with the PDF
Alongside the illustrated book, this Academy PDF pack includes three separate classroom documents, all in French:
- The story and reading texts, without the activity questions.
- Illustrated questions and activities, with space for pupils to respond.
- A teacher guide with hints, worked answers and PER curriculum references.
The two pupil documents use Century Gothic 12 with generous spacing. These documents accompany the digital PDF purchase; they are not included with the printed book.
How is the printed book different?
The printed edition is a separate A5 colour paperback with 50 pages, ordered through Lulu. Its pagination differs from the PDF. Shipping charges and delivery estimates are confirmed by Lulu at checkout.
MystMind
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Try the first mission for free, then get the complete printable adventure.
