Lesson Plan - Square Numbers - Grades 3-4

Jennifer Pisano - Lesson Plans for Color Tiles and Pattern Blocks
Math
Anticipatory Set:
Complete/Review Do Now and homework

Learning Expectations:
* learn the characteristics of square and triangular numbers
* recognize patterns *make predictions based on patterns

Activities:
*show a square with one Pattern Block - use orange blocks or color tiles to make the next bigger square. Set up a table and have record what they have done. Now show the green triangle and model how to build the next bigger triangle with green blocks. Point out that in building bigger triangles, one new row is added to a side of the previous triangle, leaving spaces between blocks.
~What patterns can you find in the numbers of Pattern Blocks that can be used to make squares and triangles?• Using the orange blocks, work with your partner to build increasingly larger squares.• Record, each time, both the number of blocks you added to build the next bigger square, and the total number of blocks in the new square.• Record the numbers through the eighth square, but build squares only until you discover the pattern that will give you all the numbers you need.• Now use the green blocks to build increasingly bigger triangles. Build new triangles by adding blocks to one side of the previous triangle. All blocks should be positioned the same way, and there should be spaces between all the blocks• Record, each time, through the eighth triangle, but build only until you discover the pattern.• Be ready to discuss the patterns your tables reveal.

Assessments:
* teacher observations, student-centered discussion, patterns

Materials:
* pattern blocks, grid paper, color tiles

Tech Infusion:
Promethean board - flipchart, laptops, activotes for follow-up

Accomodations/Modifications:
* teacher designed groups
* differentiated assignments/activities (centers to reach all levels)
* use of manipulatives/graphic organizers
* extension activities/alternative assignments
* seating near positive role model
* encouraging independence/student initiative

• Homework: Math - write about the patterns that were discovered in the blocks
• Standards: MA.4.4.2.4 A.5, MA.4.4.3.4 A.1.a, MA.4.4.3.4 A.1.c



Sample Table for square - make a similar table for triangle numbers

Figure # 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
# blocks 1 4 9 16
# you added 0 3 5 7