Pattern block addition

Students will practice addition, problem solving, and writing equations in the context of a fun and challenging pattern game.

A lesson plan for grade 1 Mathematics

By Dawn Potter

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Learning outcomes

Students will:

• use problem-solving strategies, such as guess and check and visualization, to play the game.
• use mental math to decide on placement of blocks.
• practice addition using 2 and 3 number addition.
• practice recording 2 and 3 number addition problems.

Teacher planning

Time required for lesson

30 minutes

Materials/resources

• pencil and paper
• calculator
• pattern blocks (prepared prior to the lesson)

Pre-activities

The student must be able to do simple addition, write simple addition equations, and use a calculator if desired by the teacher.

Activities

1. Two players are needed to play Pattern Block Addition. Each receives three each of the following pattern blocks: green triangle, blue rhombus, red trapezoid, yellow hexagon. These sets of pattern blocks can be prepared ahead of time and stored in ziploc bags.
2. Players agree on assigned points for each color (e.g., green-1, blue-2, red-3, yellow-6). Have each child record the value decided for each color.
3. The game begins with one yellow hexagon block being placed in the center of the playing area. This piece does not belong to either player.
4. The first player places one of his/her blocks so that one side of his/her block is completely touching one side of the block(s) on the playing surface. The scoring for each play is the sum of the values of the block placed and those that it touches completely on one side. Play continues until all blocks are placed. For example: Player one selects a green triangle (1 point) to play. She places it with one side completely touching the yellow hexagon (6 points). Seven points are scored for player one (1+6=7). Player two then places a red trapezoid (3 points) so that it completely touches one full side of the green triangle (1 point) and one full side of the yellow hexagon (6 points). Player two scores 10 points (3+1+6=10). Player one places a blue rhombus (2 points) so that it touches one full side of the green triangle (1 point) and one full side of the yellow hexagon (6 points), which scores another 9 points for player one (1+2+6=9). Player one now has a total of 16 points. Player two continues with his/her turn.
5. Students may use a calculator to keep score.
6. The player with the most points after all pieces have played is the winner.

Assessment

Have students discuss the following:

• Their scores and strategies used.
• What was the most/least points scored in a game?
• Did the children use the blocks with higher values first or last and why?
• Does Player one have an advantage by going first?
• Is there a maximum score a player can earn?
• If the pieces were assigned different values, how would that affect their play?

Supplemental information

This lesson works great taught in large group using overhead pattern blocks. The teacher manipulates the pieces at the students’ direction. The class can be divided into two teams. Great discussion takes place as they decide which blocks to play.