Classroom mode

Run it in class

Can you really fit ALL the counting numbers into the spaces between 0 and 1?

Show of hands — before you project anything

Predict whether the even numbers and the counting numbers are the same size, then test it by trying to pair every one with nobody left over.

  • A Way more than you'd guess
  • B About what you'd guess
  • C Way less than you'd guess

Count the votes out loud. Hold them to it — then watch.

Project it (fullscreen)

Discussion prompts

  • Predict whether the even numbers and the counting numbers are the same size, then test it by trying to pair every one with nobody left over.
  • Predict what the diagonal machine will build, then run it and check the new decimal against each row to confirm it was left off.
  • Predict whether any reshuffled list could finally hold all the decimals, then reason about why the diagonal always escapes.

Where it shows up in real life

  • Pairing each kid in class with exactly one chair to check two groups are the same size without counting.
  • A number line where between any two decimals you can always squeeze in another one forever.
  • A never-ending numbered list, like ranking videos 1, 2, 3…, and asking what could never fit on it.

A prediction-first worksheet — no answer key.

zero prep · no login · any projector

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