Investigate number sequences, initially those increasing and decreasing by twos, threes, fives and tens from any starting point, then moving to other sequences / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to identify and create number sequences that increase or decrease by twos, threes, fives, and tens. They will also explore other patterns and sequences, enhancing their understanding of numbers and how they relate to one another.

Materials and Prep

  • Paper and pencil for writing down sequences
  • Whiteboard or chalkboard (optional for demonstration)
  • A comfortable space to work, free from distractions
  • Basic understanding of addition and subtraction

Activities

  • Number Hopscotch: Create a hopscotch grid on the floor using tape or chalk. Each square will represent a number in a sequence. For example, if you start at 0 and increase by 2, the squares would be 0, 2, 4, 6, etc. The student can hop from square to square while saying the numbers aloud.

  • Sequence Detective: Write down a few number sequences on paper, mixing increasing and decreasing patterns. Have the student identify the pattern and predict the next numbers in the sequence. For example, if you write 5, 10, 15, what comes next?

  • Number Stories: Create short stories that involve number sequences. For instance, "If you have 10 apples and give away 2 each day, how many apples will you have after 3 days?" This helps the student apply sequences to real-life situations.

  • Pattern Art: Use numbers to create art! The student can draw a series of shapes and label them with numbers in a sequence. For example, drawing circles and labeling them with numbers that increase by 5 (5, 10, 15, etc.).

Talking Points

  • "What do you think happens when we add 2 to a number? Can you show me?"
  • "Let's count together! If we start at 0 and add 3, what do we get next? Can you keep going?"
  • "Imagine you have a basket of fruits. If you pick 5 fruits every day, how many will you have after a week? Let's find out!"
  • "Can you see a pattern in these numbers? What do you notice when we skip count by 10s?"
  • "Why do you think understanding sequences is important? How do you think it helps us in everyday life?"
  • "Let’s create a sequence together! Start with 1 and tell me what comes next if we add 2 each time."
  • "What if we went backwards? If we start at 20 and go down by 5, can you tell me the numbers?"