Year 3 Number Patterns Exploration
Discovering patterns through multiplication Using algorithms and arrays 60 minutes of mathematical fun!
Learning Objectives
Represent multiplication as repeated addition and arrays Follow and create simple algorithms Identify patterns in multiples of 2, 5, and 10 Sort coins using mathematical algorithms Describe and record number patterns
Australian Curriculum Links
AC9M3A07: Creating number patterns with algorithms AC9M3N07: Following algorithms to investigate numbers AC9M3N04: Multiplication using arrays and repeated addition AC9M3M06: Money relationships - dollars and cents AC9M3N06: Mathematical modelling in financial contexts
Warm-Up: What is Multiplication?
Show 3 groups of 5 objects Write as 5 + 5 + 5 = 15 Write as 3 × 5 = 15 Discuss: How are these the same?
Calculator Activity: Finding Patterns
Work in pairs with calculators Add 5 repeatedly: 5, 10, 15, 20... Add 10 repeatedly: 10, 20, 30, 40... Record your results What patterns do you notice?
Hundreds Board Exploration
Coin Sorting Algorithm
Step 1: Look at the coin Step 2: Is it 5 cents? Step 3: If yes, put in 5c group Step 4: If no, put in 10c group Practice sorting your coins!
Arrays and Repeated Addition
Draw arrays to show multiplication 4 × 3 = 4 rows of 3 Same as 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 12 Arrays help us see equal groups Practice drawing your own arrays
Pattern Detective Challenge
Look at this sequence: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25... What comes next? What is the pattern rule? Can you create your own pattern?
Kate's Patent Machine
Follow the algorithm worksheet Input numbers into the 'machine' Apply the pattern rule Record your outputs Describe what pattern emerges
Assessment and Reflection
{"left":"Show equal groups with objects\nDraw arrays for multiplication\nExplain your coin sorting algorithm","right":"Describe patterns you found\nWhat was challenging?\nWhat did you discover?"}
Differentiation and Extension
Support: Use visual aids and peer partners Support: Start with smaller numbers Extension: Try multiples of 3 or 4 Extension: Create complex sorting algorithms Extension: Find patterns in addition and subtraction