Ep 16. Yet Another Tree Problem / The Romeo and Juliet Problem
- April 14, 2014
- 25 min
In Yet Another Tree Problem / The Romeo and Juliet Problem, Peg and Cat are faced with two different mathematical problems. The first problem is a tree problem where they need to figure out how to distribute apples evenly across three trees. The second problem is a Romeo and Juliet problem where they need to help two groups of pirates share their treasures equally.
In the tree problem, Peg and Cat notice that one tree has more apples than the other two. They need to figure out how to redistribute the apples fairly so that each tree has the same number of apples. Peg comes up with the idea to use a seesaw so they can weigh the apples and figure out how many should go to each tree. They also use a chart to keep track of how many apples they've distributed. With a little bit of trial and error, they finally distribute the apples fairly between all three trees.
The Romeo and Juliet problem is a bit more complex. Peg and Cat hear two groups of pirates arguing over their treasure. Each group has two treasures and they want to trade one treasure with the other group. However, each group thinks their treasure is worth more than the other group's treasure, so they can't agree on a fair trade. Peg and Cat suggest that they use a balance scale to weigh each treasure and determine their value. They also help the pirates create a chart to keep track of the weights and values of each treasure. With a bit of negotiation and cooperation, Peg and Cat help the pirates come to a fair trade agreement that makes both groups happy.
Throughout both problems, Peg and Cat use problem-solving skills and math concepts to come up with solutions. They encourage the audience to think creatively and work together to solve problems. Their solutions often involve trial and error, but they never give up or get discouraged. This episode of Peg + Cat is a great example of how math can be both fun and practical.