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Patchwork

This resource features a task that involves generating sequences, finding an nth term rule, and solving equations in a practical context.

Students investigate a sequence of square patchwork cushions designed using combinations of right angled triangles and squares. Students then derive nth term rules for the number of squares and triangles needed for each cushion. They then use their equations to find out how many triangles are needed for a cushion that has 180 squares. 

This task is from the Mathematics Assessment Resource Service, a collaboration between UC Berkeley and the Shell Centre team at the University of Nottingham. A full rubric is given for the task, together with examples of student work and suggestions for helping students overcome misconceptions. Further information on the collection is given here.

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Information on the permitted use of this resource is covered by the Category Three Content section in STEM Learning’s Terms and conditions.
Subject(s)Mathematics
Age14-16
Published2010 to 2019
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Direct URLhttps://www.stem.org.uk/rxfcpe

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