Joining rules
This is a level 3 number activity from the Figure It Out series. This is focused on applying basic facts to a graphing activity. A PDF of the student activity is included.
About this resource
Figure It Out is a series of 80 books published between 1999 and 2009 to support teaching and learning in New Zealand classrooms.
This resource provides the teachers' notes and answers for one activity from the Figure It Out series. A printable PDF of the student activity can be downloaded from the materials that come with this resource.
Specific learning outcomes:
- Apply basic facts to a graphing activity.
Joining rules
Achievement objectives
NA3-2: Know basic multiplication and division facts.
Required materials
- Figure It Out, Level 3, Basic facts, "Joining rules", page 14
- square grid paper
See Materials that come with this resource to download:
- Joining rules activity (.pdf)
Activity
In this activity, students generate interesting geometric designs from number patterns. They begin with the number on the horizontal axis (x-axis) and connect it to the value on the vertical axis (y-axis). This is the conventional order for graphing algebraic equations.
In question 1, the sums for 10 create a symmetrical curve. A visual device, the tens triangle, can also help students to learn the number combinations that add to 10.
The curve in question 2 is generated from factors of 24. This curve is also symmetrical, so drawing the curve may help students find any missing factors.
Students will find that joining the numbers in question 3 creates a series of parallel lines. Ask students why they think the lines are parallel.
These patterns could also be made by using nails and coloured string on a board.
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