Fibonacci: Numbers in Nature
Fibonacci numbers are an interesting mathematical idea. The prevalence of their appearance in nature and the ease of understanding them makes them an excellent principal for elementary-age children to study. The exploration of maths in nature can be a fascinating revelation for students. In this course students manipulate sets of numbers using a given rule. Starting with a number sequence they proceed to construct and discover rectangles and spirals as they are found in earth’s natural and built environments.
Background information:
Once students become aware of how nature is full of Fibonacci numbers and the Fibonacci sequence they are able to look around and find countless examples in our natural and built world. This course helps students to view nature through a different, mathematical lens.
Year Level: 3 – 6
Prior knowledge:
There is no prior knowledge necessary. This is a level 5 & 6 course however, this course may also be suitable for use with highly capable students currently in Years 3 & 4.
Course Connections:
This course can stand alone as a learning experience
Learning Intentions:
In this program students will:
- Explain Fibonacci numbers and their origins
- Identify Fibonacci numbers in nature and art
- Generate the next number in the Fibonacci sequence
- Create an original number sequence
- Create a Fibonacci rectangle and spiral
Estimated Duration: 45 Mins
Victorian Curriculum:
Mathematics – Patterns and algebra
- Level 3: Describe, continue, and create number patterns resulting from performing addition or subtraction VCMNA138
- Level 5: Follow a mathematical algorithm involving branching and repetition (iteration) VCMNA194
- Level 6: Continue and create sequences involving whole numbers, fractions and decimals. Describe the rule used to create the sequence VCMNA219
Mathematics – Location and transformation
- Level 3: Identify symmetry in the environment VCMMG144
