Add it all together. Pupils learn how Gauss was able to add the numbers from 1 to 100 so quickly and arrive at a formula to find the sum of a given number of terms of an arithmetic series. Scholars learn the formula to find the sum for a geometric series. Using the formulas, they solve a variety of problems.

Concepts

series, arithmetic series, geometric series

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Instructional Ideas

• Confirm class members know how to identify arithmetic and geometric sequences

Classroom Considerations

• Expects the class to know how to solve exponential and quadratic equations
• Segment two of a three-part sequence and series unit 

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Provides two additional worksheets to help struggling learners reach mastery
• Shows each step while solving problems

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 MP6 MP7 HSA-SSE.B.4