Determine equivalent methods to find sums of consecutive numbers. Learners watch a video of a computer program that finds the sum of five consecutive numbers given a starting number. Pupils hypothesize how to determine the sum without adding each number. Finally, classmates share and compare their solutions.

Concepts

expressions, algebraic expressions, equivalent expressions, variables

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Ask learners to come up with the expression that would give the answer to five consecutive odd or even numbers
• Use the activity to introduce equivalent expressions

Classroom Considerations

• Assumes knowledge of how to teach a lesson using a Three Act Task

Pros

• Provides connections to highlight
• Includes a link to the program to investigate further

Cons

• None

Common Core

6.EE.A.2.a 6.EE.A.2.b 6.EE.A.2.c 6.EE.A.4 6.EE.B.6