Teaching Number Patterns with Polygons and Stars

Abstract

This paper describes a novel approach for exploring counting and pattern recognition in early elementary classrooms that ties numerical patterns to geometric patterns. Active-learning exercises that start out face-to-face (or using the virtual Class Circle sheet of the Polygons and Stars Excel file) can be explored quickly and more fully using the Polygons and Stars sheets. This file can be used by the teacher in the classroom, as well as by students undertaking independent explorations. Such explorations help energize young learners; as they explore, extract, and explain what they have found, they begin to recognize the beauty inherent in mathematical patterns.