Color the town red. Demonstrate the concept of graph theory with a task that involves determining the least number of colors needed to color a map so that neighboring countries are not represented by the same color. Pupils make connections to determine the optimum solutions to the problem. 

Concepts

cartographers, cartography, computer applications, computers, problem solving techniques, algorithms, computer science, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Lead a discussion using the What's it All About section before having the class perform the activity
• Have advanced classes determine the number of combinations necessary to color a specified number of countries

Classroom Considerations

• Younger classes may not use the least number of colors possible

Pros

• Provides several practice pages
• The reading provides a background that connects the activity to computer science

Cons

• Some of the figures are not near where the topic is discussed in the text