Instructional Video

Can Math Explain How Animals Get Their Patterns?

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Most people think of a mathematical pattern as a series of numbers. A video discusses how math might explain the patterns of spots, stripes, and other shapes found on animals. It begins with the observation of various patterns, then explains the math that can create those exact patters ... but leaves the final solution up to future scientists.

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CCSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • The theories discussed come from a famous scientist, but these theories aren't what he is known for; research what Alan Turing is known for scientifically
  • Use the reaction diffusion simulation found here: https://pmneila.github.io/jsexp/grayscott/
Classroom Considerations
  • Avoid displaying any comments that contain inappropriate content
  • This video is hosted on YouTube
Pros
  • Relates math to science
  • Offers closed captioning in six languages for ease of note taking
Cons
  • None