Education Technology


NUMB3RS - Season 2 - "Double Down" - That's So Random

Activity Overview

In "Double Down," three college students attempt to get an edge in a casino card game by analyzing the mechanical randomization process used to shuffle the cards. As Charlie explains, the auto-shuffler relies on an algorithm to deal the cards in random order. The students are able to crack the algorithm and thus predict the order in which the cards are dealt.

Before the Activity

Download the attached PDF and look over the Teacher page.

During the Activity

Discuss the materials from the Student Page with your class.

After the Activity

Encourage students to explore web sites and questions from the Extensions page.