How do magicians trick people?

How do magicians trick people?
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Image & Video Credits

Mystery Science respects the intellectual property rights of the owners of visual assets. We make every effort to use images and videos under appropriate licenses from the owner or by reaching out to the owner to get explicit permission. If you are the owner of a visual and believe we are using it without permission, please contact us—we will reply promptly and make things right.

Exploration
7 Simple Magic Tricks with Household Items by TheDanocracy
Coin change trick in front of a Lamborghini by Jibrizy Magic
Easy magic trick for kids - Floating Ketchup Trick by maryjlockwood
Holiday Jubliee provides fun for all ages with magicians by Lance Cpl. Scott Whiting , used under Public Domain
How to Levitate by Howcast
Military children at Jeff Jones magic show by Pfc. Joshua Grant , used under Public Domain
Mr. Sucro’s Removable Finger Triack by Mike Levin, SEO in NYC
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Activity Prep

Print Prep

In this mini-lesson, students discover that making close observations like a scientist can help them figure out how magic tricks work. In the activity, The Gold Finder, students build a trick prop and practice performing for their friends.

Preview activity
Number of students:
Great Gold Finder printout 1 per pair
Magician’s Secret Story printout 1 per student
Glue Sticks
1 per student
Scissors
1 per student
Prep Instructions

We suggest students work in pairs. Homeschool students can work on their own.

Prepare the Great Gold Finders

The Great Gold Finder will print with two copies of the template on each sheet. Older students will cut these in half during the activity. If you work with younger grades, you may want to pre-cut these to save time. Make sure to cut along the thick black line!

Note About the Video

All step-by-step videos show the Great Gold Finder with the arrow pointing toward the upper right at the start of the trick. While this is what the Magician will see from their perspective, their audience will see the arrow pointing to the lower left. The magic trick will work regardless, but some students may notice and ask you about it.

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Activity

Download this Lesson to your device so you can play it offline:
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