|
|
|
|
Basic shape:
| Copies of basic shape | Number of matches used | Copies of basic shape | Number of matches used |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5 | ||
| 2 | 10 | ||
| 3 | 100 | ||
| 4 | n |
Try to make some patterns of your own using other basic shapes and combinations.
This activity implements a common approach to learning algebra: start with a visual pattern, extract the associated numerical pattern (i.e. a sequence), realise the need for an efficient and general description, and construct such a description in algebraic form.
The word algebra, from the Arabic al-jabr meaning "reunion of broken parts", comes from a 9th century mathematical book entitled 'restoring what is missing and equating like with like'. It was first used in English during the 14th century (as algeber) in the very literal sense of "bone-setting" — not a particularly pleasant experience back then I'm sure! Robert Recorde (c. 1512-1558), the inventor of the equals sign "=", was the first to use the term as we do today. He was also responsible for the incredible word zenzizenzizenzic, describing an 8th power (e.g. x8). No word in English has more z's.
A nice matchstick puzzle is – how can you make 4 equal triangles with 6 matchsticks? No breaking allowed.