Module 3 Problem Solving Look for a pattern

Module 3: Problem Solving: Look for a pattern Guess and check

Content Learning Targets Participants will solve problems by: • Looking for a pattern • Using guess and check Participants will justify their solutions

Language Learning Targets Participants will define: • Sequence • Pattern • Guess and check • Conjecture • Verification

Problem Solving Activity Look for a pattern • • Numeric sequences Geometric sequences Sequences in nature Pascal’s triangle

Guess and Check Guess and check is an important problem solving strategy used by mathematicians and engineers. Mathematicians will use this strategy with differential equations. The difference between guess and check in the classroom and in research is that in the classroom, there is usually a known solution to the problem and in research the solution is unknown.

Guess and Check Conjecture and Verification • Understand the problem and the requirements or restrictions of the solutions • Record each conjecture and the result • Verify the validity of each result against the requirements of the solution • Explain the merits of the solution

Problem Solving Activity guess and check • Thinking of a number • Grandpa at the movies • Jelly Beans

Assignment: Math application plan #1 Select from the list below, draft a one-page implementation plan for your chosen topic. Plan is to include: grade level, how topic will be introduced, key instructional strategies and assessment strategies. • • • Gathering and organizing information Eliminating possibilities Matrix logic Look for a pattern Guess and check