Sequences and Series Lesson Plans

Learners investigate sequences and series numerically, graphically, and symbolically.  In this sequences and series lesson, students use their Ti-89 to determine if a series is convergent.  Learners find the terms in a sequence and series and graph them.  Students use summation notation to determine the sum of a sequence.

Students find patterns in a sequence.  In this sequences and series lesson, students use their calculator to find the sequence of partial sums.  They graph functions and explore convergent series.  Students approximate alternating series.

Students examine geometric sequences and series in Sequence mode using a graphing calculator. They relate geometric sequences to their explicit forms and find the partial sums of a sequence in a table. Students determine if a geometric series is converging or diverging.

Students investigate the concepts of sequences and series and define the differences. They also find the sum of a geometric series and then define the terms that are related. Finally students differentiate between the finite and the infinite.

Students are introduced to the concepts of sequences and mathematical events in series. They practice applying the skills needed to solve problems, work on the foundation of simple concepts, and build upon them to achieve mastery of higher order thinking skills.

Young scholars investigate a sequence of numbers and a series using mathematical operations. They practice solving problems that have arithmetic sequences and patterns which are identified.

Students examine different sequences of numbers in order to make cognitive connections with geometric sequences. They identify arithmetic and geometric sequences,then read articles from the Math Forum at Drexel University.

Students investigate geometric series.  In this Algebra II/Pre-Calculus lesson, students use a spreadsheet application to create partial sums of geometric series and observe convergence and divergence.  Students investigate the relationship between the behavior of the graph and the common ratio of the series.  Students examine the formula for the sum of a divergent infinite geometric series. 

Eleventh graders investigate arithmetic sequences.  In this Algebra II lesson, 11th graders create an arithmetic sequence and explore the effect of each variable in the formula of the nth term of an arithmetic sequence.  Students graph an sequence using a scatter plot.

Fourth graders are introduced to arithmetic and geometric sequences. In this mathematics lesson, 4th graders produce a variety of sequences by varying the starting number, multiplier, and the add-on number.