Pattern Blocks

Pattern Blocks: http://nlvm.usu.edu/en/nav/frames_asid_169_g_1_t_3.html?open=activities&from=grade_g_1.html

This applet designed for PK-2 grade students deals with making and describing patterns. Students drag pattern block shapes into a working area, creating a design of their choice. After playing with the shapes, the teacher instructs the students to make a wall with squares, a star with diamonds, and other simple shapes. While the names of the shapes are reinforced through the teacher's instructions, the teacher gradually guides students to create patterns based on variable names, like AAA, ABA, ABCCABCC. It is easy to drag the shapes, but PK-kindergarten students may have trouble rotating the shapes to fit into small areas. The visual display is attractive and the applet could keep students engaged. The challenges presented may vary depending on age level. For PK-K, simply learning the names of the shapes could be a challenge. For first and second graders, creating patterns in response to a teacher's use of variables may be a challenge.

The information presented to the students in this applet is focused strictly on shapes. Without teacher instruction, the applet might be a fun activity for children, but of little mathematical value. A simple lesson plan is provided for teachers to guide students to using mathematical discourse. The activity could potentially help students gain understanding of using different representations for the same concept (using letters instead of shapes to convey a pattern). It also provides early introduction to variables - using letters in place of a concept, albeit not a number in this case. It does not have much potential for improving problem solving skills, so would quickly bore a gifted student. The teacher could adapt the lesson, but the nature of the activity does not lend itself to problem solving, reasoning, and proof.