Objectives:

Children will explore patterns on some internet sites, describe the patterns, make virtual patterns, and duplicate them with real unifix cubes. The computer environment provides a structure for success and for reflection on the idea of a repeating unit.

NCTM Standards: Algebra Pre-K-2

Illinois State Goal #8 Use Algebraic and analytical methods to identify and describe patterns.

Chicago Academic Standards/Objectives:

Recognize, describe, create, replicate, and extend a variety of patterns including attribute, number, and geometric patterns using manipulatives, diagrams, and symbols.

Entering prerequisite knowledge:

This should not be the children’s first experience with patterning. They should patterning by doing prior to this lesson.

They can make rhythmic patterns by clapping, slapping, pounding, etc., make patterns in a line of boy, girl, boy; make movement patterns of standing, sitting, etc.

Materials:

Computer with internet access, printer, unifix cubes.

Internet Sites:

Procedure:

1. Go to

Ask the students to describe the patterns made on this interactive site on figure 1a, 1b, and 1c.

Next, look at figure 2a.

Ask the children to describe this pattern and discuss how it is different from the patterns in figures 1a, 1b, and 1c.

Make the same patterns with real unifix cubes.

2. With the teacher’s guidance the students will create virtual patterns using virtual connecting cubes and describe the various patterns they find or make on this web site:

3. In regards to the above virtual pattern making excursion, children will answer the following questions with the teacher’s guidance:

How many colors are in your pattern?

How many colored squares are in one repetition?

How many repetitions did you make in the whole figure?

How can you change your pattern without adding other colors?

4. Try making patterns with real unifix cubes.

Accommodations:

If a volunteer is available or teacher aid, the children can work in pairs with the aid to do the above activities.

If no aid or volunteer is available, this lesson can be done as a small group or whole group.

Outcome:

Children will be able to duplicate a given virtual or real unifix pattern with unifix cube manipulatives.

Children will describe a given virtual or real unifix pattern.

Children can extend the pattern.

Children will analyze how repeating patterns are generated.

E-Mail

Mrs. Barb

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