Learning Activity

Recursive and Explicit Equation Card Sort

Subject Area

Mathematics

Grade(s)

9, 10, 11, 12

Overview

This Desmos Activity will lead students to sort patterns and write formulas for each pattern.  They will then sort the formulas into either recursive formulas or explicit formulas. 

Mathematics (2019) Grade(s): 09-12 - Applications of Finite Mathematics

MA19.FM.11

Find patterns in application problems involving series and sequences, and develop recursive and explicit formulas as models to understand and describe sequential change.

Unpacked Content

UP:MA19.FM.11

Vocabulary

  • Difference equation
  • Recursive process
  • Recursive formula
  • Sequences
  • Series

Knowledge

Students know:

  • How to use inductive counting methods such as lists.

Skills

Students are able to:

  • Use inductive counting methods to collect data for conjecturing.
  • Find recursive formulas from collected data.
  • Develop explicit formulas.

Body

  1. Find patterns in application problems involving series and sequences, and develop recursive and explicit formulas as models to understand and describe sequential change.
    Examples: fractals, population growth

Phase

During/Explore/Explain
Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to write formulas to model patterns and to identify the formulas as either recursive or explicit formulas.

Activity Details

    1. The teacher will assign Recursive and Explicit Equations Card Sort through Google Classroom or another online learning platform.
    2. The teacher will direct each student to the Desmos learning activity, Recursive and Explicit Equations Card Sort in Google Classroom or another preferred online learning platform.
    3. Students will work through the activity.
    4. The teacher should provide insight and guidance as students work through the activity.
    5. As the students complete the prompts, the teacher should monitor students' progress on Desmos to identify problems or gaps in learning.
Assessment Strategies

Assessment Strategies

The card sort is self-checking. Teachers can also view student work on the teacher dashboard and can correct misconceptions as they work through the activity.

Variation Tips

The class could work in pairs or groups to discuss how to sort the cards in each set. 

If devices are not available, the activity could be completed as a whole group activity.

Related Learning Activities

Learning Activity (Before)

Engaging Square Patterns

Learning Activity (During)

Recursive and Explicit Equation Card Sort

Learning Activity (After)

Recursive or Explicit, Why Not Both? Exit Ticket

Background and Preparation

Background / Preparation

The teacher will need to ensure the classroom has the following:

    • Internet connection (WiFi).
    • Classroom set of computers, iPads, or smart devices. (If allowed students can use their own personal devices.)

Prior to the lesson, the teacher will need to assign Recursive and Explicit Card Sort.

Prior to the lesson, the teacher should be familiar with Desmos and should create a free class code for the activity. If the teacher does not have a Desmos account, he/she will need to create a free Desmos account.

Prior to the lesson, the teacher should work through the activity and be prepared to address questions. (The teacher can print a Teacher Guide to assist in this preparation.) 

Digital Tools / Resources

Desmos Activity Recursive and Explicit Card Sort
https://teacher.desmos.com/activitybuilder/custom/62c243a5c4848d052acb4d36

Approved Date

Owner (Author)

mrswhite
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