Week 9 Reflection

The presenters last week focused on Patterns and Algebra and how we could teach these units in oure classrooms. One of the presenters gave each group a massive grid that had numbers 1 through 10 on each axis and in the middle was the product of the numbers on each axis. For example, if you go across the top axis until 6, and then you drop down 4 squares, you will then be in the quadrant that represents 6 x 4. Since we know that 6 X 4 = 24, it evidently showed 24 in that box. Because each side is numbered from 1 through 10, the numbers on the grid therefore range from 1 x 1 to 10 x 10 or 1 to 100.

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The presenter then had us use counters and highlighters to represent patterns on the grid. As the picture shows, my group chose a non-linear pattern of 1 4 9 16 25 36... Given this increase, we determined that the rule for this pattern was T squared. This means that the output value is equal to the input number multiplied by itself. To verify that this rule works, we can examine the 5th term in the sequence. Since the term number is 5, we simply compute 5 x 5 to find that the value for the 5th term is 25. This technique for learning patterns in algebra is wonderful for the classroom as it teaches students about the relationships between numbers while providing a hands on experience that will keep them engaged.

Another presenter cut out pattern squares to help each group visually understand the patterns and how they are changing from one term to the next. This method was a great as it allowed each group to see first hand how each patter was changing and therefore, come up with an appropriate rule to fit the pattern. Students certainly appreciate visuals and hands on aids so i believe this method will be very beneficial to students and how they learn.

Overall, each of the presents last week did a great job explaining their lessons and guiding each group through the action portion of the lesson. I really enjoyed coming up with pattern rules with my group members and this is the best way to make learning happen with students as well.