Track 5 - Task 3 - Nines All Around
This is our version of the Soduko type puzzles. All of the puzzles are randomly generated so that every time the program is run, the puzzles are different. On Level 1, only nine numbers are missing. There are eighteen missing for Level 2 and twenty-seven missing for Level 3. As with all of the tasks in COM, we are trying to develop good methods of approaching a task, thinking about what you need to do to accomplish the task, making a plan and carrying out the plan in an organized, structured manner. We are not trying to teach people how to play the games, but rather we are using the games as a means to develop good thinking skills that can be used anywhere and in any situation.
I have observed, on many occasions, that when I ask a person to do Nines All Around, they will just immediately start in the upper left corner area without any analysis or study of the whole puzzle. Think about ways to simplify a difficult task and make it easier to do. Look for a row, column or red square group that only has one digit missing. Every time you place a digit, look at the row, column and red square that contains the digit you just put in to see if you created more easy answers. Usually there are more than one way to do something. Some ways are better than others. Most of the time there will be at least one way that is much better than the other ways. Spend a little time thinking about what would be the best way to accomplish what you are doing - in daily life and with your school work.