Grade Range
1–6
🌻 Who knew numbers could grow leaves?
Patterns are popping up everywhere! Students investigate the Fibonacci sequence, search for spirals and patterns in nature, and discover how Alan Turing used curiosity and pattern-finding to tackle some seriously tricky problems. Then the math gets hands-on as students engineer a model Fibonacci Leaf Tower with six tiers and 20 leaves arranged according to the famous sequence.
But building it is only half the fun! Students shine light on their model from four directions, collect data about which leaves receive light, and use their results to evaluate and improve their design. Along the way, engineering and mathematics come together with risk-taking, perseverance, and understanding.
By the end of the mission, students will see that patterns aren't just something found on a math worksheet—they can help us understand nature, solve problems, and design something pretty fabulous!
🩷 Heart of the Lesson: Blockhead: The Life of Fibonacci by Joseph D'Agnese. This book is not included and must be borrowed from your public library or purchased separately.
If necessary, your local librarian will be happy to help you find compatible alternatives and additional related resources.
by
Joseph D'Agnese
NGSS Core domain:
Engineering and Technology
NGSS Expectations:
3-5-ETS1-1 — Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost. 3-5-ETS1-3 — Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.
CCSS:
2.MD.D.10; 3.MD.B.3; 4.OA.C.5; 5.OA.B.3; RI.3.1; RI.3.3; W.3.2; SL.3.4
TEKS:
MATH 4.5(B); MATH 3.5(E); MATH 3.1(F); SCI 3.1(E); SCI 3.1(F); SCI 3.2(B); SCI 3.5(A)
