Why use this resource?

Students are asked to think carefully about the different ways they can solve an arithmetic sequences question, and about what happens when they change one aspect of an arithmetic sequence. This provides an opportunity to make connections between arithmetic sequences, linear relationships and linear graphs.

Preparation

This resource was created from suggestions made by teachers who participated in our webinar ‘Asking questions in the classroom’. To think more carefully about questioning in the classroom, you may wish to watch a recording of the webinar.

Key questions

  • Can you represent this sequence graphically?
  • What aspects of the arithmetic sequence can be changed?
  • What impact does changing each aspect have?

Possible extension

Students could be asked to extend other questions in similar ways. Can they come up with alternative methods? How could they change the question and what affect does that have on the answer?