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5th Grade  Project 4 weeks

Pattern Masters: Create & Code Challenge!

Michele C
Updated
CCSS.Math.Content.5.OA.B.3
CCSS.Math.Content.5.OA.A.2
CCSS.Math.Content.5.OA.A.1
CCSS.Math.Content.5.NBT.A.2
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP7
+ 7 more
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Purpose

"The Code Creators: Decoding & Designing Patterns" empowers fifth-grade students to become active problem-solvers by using numerical expressions and patterns to create logical systems and games. Over four weeks, they explore and manipulate algebraic concepts to enhance their community experiences through innovative designs. Hands-on activities develop critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills, while the showcase event allows students to present their projects, fostering a connection between their learning and community engagement.

Learning goals

Students will gain the ability to create and evaluate numerical expressions using parentheses, brackets, or braces, focusing on designing logical systems or games that address community needs. They will learn to recognize, describe, and generalize patterns, linking these to real-world examples, and apply their mathematical knowledge to solve authentic challenges. Through collaborative projects and peer feedback, students will strengthen their communication skills and reflect on their learning, enhancing their understanding and application of mathematical concepts in engaging ways.

Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.5.OA.B.3 - Generate two numerical patterns using two given rules. Identify apparent relationships between corresponding terms. Form ordered pairs consisting of corresponding terms from the two patterns, and graph the ordered pairs on a coordinate plane.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.5.OA.A.2 - Write simple expressions that record calculations with numbers, and interpret numerical expressions without evaluating them.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.5.OA.A.1 - Use parentheses, brackets, or braces in numerical expressions, and evaluate expressions with these symbols.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.5.NBT.A.2 - Explain patterns in the number of zeros of the product when multiplying a number by powers of 10, and explain patterns in the placement of the decimal point when a decimal is multiplied or divided by a power of 10. Use whole-number exponents to denote powers of 10.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Practice.MP7 - Look for and make use of structure.
  • [North Carolina] NC.5.OA.2 - Write, explain, and evaluate numerical expressions involving the four operations to solve up to two-step problems. Include expressions involving:Parentheses, using the order of operations.Commutative, associative and distributive properties.
  • [North Carolina] NC.5.OA.3 - Generate two numerical patterns using two given rules.Identify apparent relationships between corresponding terms.Form ordered pairs consisting of corresponding terms from the two patterns.Graph the ordered pairs on a coordinate plane.
Competencies
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.

Products

Throughout the project, students will create a LEGO-based maze with hidden paths that are revealed through the use of math patterns and expressions, encouraging anticipation and discovery. They will also develop a digital or physical game incorporating numerical expressions to tackle a community challenge or enhance local experiences. At the 'Code Creators Showcase,' students will present their creations and elucidate their strategic approaches in applying patterns to solve problems and engage the audience with interactive demonstrations.

Launch

Start the learning experience with the Pattern Hunt & Design Challenge by organizing an exploration day for students around the school and local community sites to identify and document patterns in nature and architecture. Encourage students to harness their findings to create initial sketches or designs that inspire problem-solving projects. This hands-on activity provides a tangible connection to real-world applications of numerical expressions and sets the stage for creative innovation through the project.

Exhibition

Present the 'Code Creators Showcase' in the school auditorium, featuring interactive displays created by students. Each participant presents their project—such as mazes or games designed with math patterns—to invite attendees, including younger students and school staff, to engage in hands-on exploration. Following the presentations, hold an interactive question-and-answer session, encouraging the audience to contemplate the diverse approaches and real-world applications demonstrated by the students. This exhibition emphasizes collaboration and innovation while enhancing community connections through engaging projects.