Discovering Patterns

Unit #4

Grade Level: 4th Grade Mathematics

Duration: 45 minutes

Class Size: 9 Students

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Standards Alignment

• Common Core State Standards:
  • Mathematics: 4.OA.C.5 - Generate and analyze patterns.
  • Mathematics: 4.G.A.2 - Classify two-dimensional figures based on their properties.

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Learning Targets

• Students will identify and extend numerical and shape patterns.
• Students will articulate rules governing the patterns they discover.
• Students will recognize and describe characteristics of patterns beyond the stated rules.

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Materials Needed

• Whiteboard and markers
• Number pattern puzzles (prepared beforehand)
• Shape cut-outs or blocks (various colors and shapes)
• Worksheets for individual/group work
• Chart paper for sharing reflections
• Exit ticket slips
• Timer

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Lesson Breakdown

A. Mini-Lesson (I Do/We Do – 10-15 minutes)

1. Introduction to Number Patterns (5-7 min)

   • Write the number pattern on the board: 2, 4, 6, 8, __, __
   • Ask the class, "What’s the rule?"
   • Guide students to recognize, "Add 2 each time."
   • Transition: Discuss why identifying the rule is important in understanding the pattern.

2. Introduction to Shape Patterns (5-7 min)

   • Write or project the shape pattern: 🔴🔴🔵🔴🔴🔵 __ __
   • Invite students to turn and talk about what they observe.
   • Bring the class back together to share thoughts on the repeating shapes.
   • Explanation: Explain various types of patterns—those that repeat, increase, decrease, or evolve differently.

3. Exploration Beyond the Rule (5 min)

   • Present a misleading pattern: 2, 4, 8, 16
     • State the rule is "Multiply by 2" but also draw attention to how only even numbers appear.
   • Pose the question: "What do you notice beyond the rule?"
   • Wrap-up: Summarize that patterns can surprise us with features not captured by the defined rule.

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B. Developmental Application (You Do – 20 minutes)

1. Group Work Setup (3 min)

   • Organize students into pairs or small groups (3 students per group).
   • Distribute number pattern puzzles and shape cut-outs/blocks to each group.

2. Tasks (15 min)

   • Number Pattern Task:
     • Complete a set of puzzles on the worksheet: Write the rule, extend the pattern, describe any surprises.
   • Shape Pattern Task:
     • Create and extend their own shape patterns using cut-outs or blocks.
   • Ensure students are using the concept of collaboration while they are working through the tasks.

3. Teacher Circulation (during group work)

   • As you circulate, engage students with prompts:
     • "Why did you choose that number/shape?"
     • "What else do you notice about your patterns?"
   • Encourage discussion of different conclusions they reach within their groups.

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C. Culminating Application (Share & Reflect – 10 minutes)

1. Sharing Patterns (5 min)

   • Have each group share one number pattern and one shape pattern they solved or created.
   • Encourage them to explain their findings and any unexpected features they noticed.

2. Class Discussion (3 min)

   • Facilitate a class discussion on unexpected features:
     • "What did you notice that wasn’t mentioned in the rule?"
   • Record responses on chart paper for visual reinforcement.

3. Exit Ticket (2 min)

   • Distribute exit ticket slips.
   • Prompt: "What did you learn about patterns today? Write one thing you noticed that surprised you."
   • Ask students to turn in their tickets as they leave the classroom.

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Differentiation and Inclusion Strategies

• Grouping: Pair students strategically based on ability levels for collaborative learning.
• Visual Aids: Use color-coded shapes and large print worksheets to aid students who may benefit from visual support.
• Support: Provide additional guidance to students who struggle by working closely with them during group activities.
• Challenge: Offer more complex patterns for advanced learners to analyze and extend.

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Assessment

• Monitor student participation during group work.
• Collect exit tickets to assess understanding of pattern concepts and identify areas for review.

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This detailed lesson plan engages students in hands-on activities while addressing multiple learning styles and promoting collaboration. By sharing unexpected aspects of patterns, students build a deeper understanding and appreciation for mathematical concepts.