Pattern Investigators Test Algorithms - Year 3

Students compare two finite number algorithms that share a +4 step but begin at different values. They record first, decide after each output whether five values have been recorded, and stop when the answer is YES. They test claims about matching-position differences and parity using actual traces. Later they change one rule at a time, identify a counterexample and explain the result. A fresh assessment asks students to trace two +5 algorithms and support a conjecture with at least two matching-position pairs.

The teaching sequence spans five lessons. Use the colour display and editable presentation for explicit modelling. Use the 12 cards and partner investigation kit for discussion and evidence checks. The guided, core and transfer worksheets provide increasing independence; the two rehearsals prepare students for the assessment. Six answer or marking pages immediately follow their student pages in the Unit Plan. The editable quiz supplies 12 question-and-answer pairs.

What's included

24-page Unit Plan PDF with contents page, two-page teacher guide and 21 resource pages; 18-slide editable teaching PowerPoint; 26-slide editable quiz PowerPoint; clean Table of Contents JPEG and protected Preview PDF for product display.

Learning focus

ordered steps, input and output, repeated number updates, YES/NO decisions, finite stopping, comparing generated patterns and giving value-based reasons.

Classroom use

explicit teaching, partner investigation, differentiated independent practice and assessment. Counters or matchsticks, step cards and pencils are useful; no coding account is required.

Formats

24-page Unit Plan PDF, 18-slide editable PowerPoint presentation, 26-slide editable PowerPoint quiz. Six matching answer or marking pages are included in the PDF.

Digital product

downloadable files; no physical item is shipped. Use is subject to the store's purchase terms.