Teaching patterns and algebra
To gain an understanding of algebra, students must be introduced to the concepts of patterns, relationships, variables, expressions, unknowns, equations and graphs in a wide variety of contexts. These activities support a concrete approach to teaching patterns and algebra from Stage 3 onwards.
Building patterns 1 (pdf - 54kb)
In this activity students make a geometric pattern involving one operation using matchsticks or counters, extend the pattern by three terms and write a number sentence to describe the pattern. Syllabus reference PAS3.1a.
Building patterns 2 (pdf - 79kb)
This activity requires students to construct a series of buildings using square tiles, extend the series by one term and record the information in a table. Syllabus reference PAS3.1a.
Building patterns 3 (pdf - 73kb)
Building a sequence of squares with different side lengths using matchsticks is the task in this activity. Students complete the next two terms in the pattern, record their findings in a table and predict the perimeter of a square with sides of six matchsticks or more. Syllabus reference PAS3.1a.
Guess my rule (pdf - 305kb)
To play guess my rule one student thinks of a rule about numbers and the other students take turns to guess the rule. A role play script to teach students how to play is included. Syllabus reference PAS3.1a.
Algebraic techniques overview (pdf - 127kb)
An overview of a unit of work on algebraic techniques that may be used with students throughout the unit to connect ideas and lessons. Syllabus reference PAS4.1.
What do I already know about algebraic techniques? (pdf - 74kb)
An assessment for learning activity that allows students to show what they know at the start of the unit of work on algebraic techniques. Syllabus reference PAS4.1.
Building shapes lesson (pdf - 34kb)
A concrete approach to teaching algebra where students work in pairs to build different shapes to represent a variable. This lesson overview introduces the symbol system and should precede PAS4.2 Number patterns. Syllabus reference PAS4.1.
Building shapes worksheet (pdf - 34kb)
Students use this worksheet in the Building shapes lesson. Syllabus reference PAS4.1.