Problem of the Week for Lower Elementary

Question: 

Jack is sitting in a swivel chair facing north. He spins a half turn clockwise, then a quarter turn counterclockwise, then a full turn clockwise, and finally a three-quarter turn counterclockwise. In which direction is Jack facing now? 

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Answer: Jack is facing south

Solution: If Jack starts facing north and spins a half turn clockwise, he will face south. Then, a quarter turn counterclockwise will cause him to face east. Next, a full turn (in either direction) will cause him to face east again. Finally, a three-quarter turn counterclockwise will cause him to face south.