Simplex Locks

Author(s): Amy Myers

A simplex lock is a type of combination door lock that involves pushing-in buttons. Given the set of rules for using a 5-button simplex lock, how many different combinations are there?

Resources

Additional Inspiration

Group-work Norms and Practice Standards (Philadelphia Area MTC)

Classifications

Audience: 3rd – 5th, 6th – 8th, 9th – 12th, College Level, For Teachers

Topics covered: Combinatorics

Session styles: Problem Posing, Problem Sets, Try a Smaller Problem

Mathematical practices: MP7 – Look for and make use of structure., MP8 – Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.

Supporting materials: Facilitator Guides

Associated Math Circles: MTC Network, Philadelphia Area Math Teachers’ Circle