Problem Solving with Patterns

Problem-solving with patterns is a strategy for solving problems by identifying and understanding the
underlying patterns. Once the pattern is identified, it can be used to predict future outcomes or to
develop a solution to the problem.

Patterns can be found in all areas of life, from nature to mathematics to human behavior. By learning to
identify and understand patterns, we can develop a more intuitive and efficient approach to problem-
solving.

Here are some examples of problem-solving with patterns:

1.Identifying the pattern in a number sequence: Recognizing arithmetic, geometric, or Fibonacci

Problem:

Find the 10th term of the geometric sequence where the first term (a1) is 3 and the common ratio (r) is 2.

Solution:

In a geometric sequence, each term is found by multiplying the previous term by a constant value called
the common ratio. The general formula for the nth term of a geometric sequence is an = a1 x r(n-1), where
an is the nth term, a1 is the first term, r is the common ratio, and n is the term number.

A10= 3x 2 (10-1)

A10= 3 x 29

A10 =3 x 315

A10 = 1536

So, the 10th term of the geometric sequence is 1536.

2.Function Patterns and Graphs: Understanding the behavior of various functions (linear, quadratic,
exponential, trigonometric) and their graphical representations to solve equations and optimize
solutions.

Recognizing patterns in functions and graphs can provide insights into the behavior of functions and
their graphical representations. Understanding these patterns can help in identifying key features such
as intercepts, asymptotes, maxima, minima, and points of inflection, enabling a deeper understanding of
the functions' properties.
Example: Consider the function f(x)=2x+3. This is an example of a linear function where the graph is a
straight line. By examining this function, you can illustrate how the pattern shows a constant rate of
change, represented by the slope of the line.

1. Finding the Slope and Y-Intercept: In the linear function f(x)=2x+3, the coefficient of x represents the
slope of the line. Here, the slope is 2. The constant term, 3, represents the y-intercept, which is the point
where the line intersects the y-axis.

2. Plotting Points and Drawing the Line: To graph this function, you can choose a few values for x to find
the corresponding y values. For instance, if you choose x=0, then f (0) =2(0) +3=3. This gives you the
point (0, 3). Similarly, if you choose x=1, then f (1) =2(1) +3=5, giving you the point (1, 5). Plot these
points and draw a straight line passing through them.

3. Interpreting the Graph: Analyze the graph to understand the behavior of the linear function. Discuss
how the slope determines the steepness of the line, and the y-intercept indicates where the line
intersects the y-axis. Emphasize that the line continues indefinitely in both directions, reflecting the
line's consistent pattern of growth or decline.

3. Using patterns to solve word problems: Word problems can often be solved by identifying the
underlying pattern. For example, the following word problem can be solved using a pattern:

A train travels at a speed of 60 miles per hour. How long will it take the train to travel 300 miles?

To solve this problem, we can set up a proportion:

distance / speed = time

Substituting in the known values, we get:

300 miles / 60 miles per hour = time

Solving for time, we get:

time = 5 hours

We can also solve this problem using a pattern. We know that if the train travels for 1 hour, it will cover
60 miles. Therefore, if the train travels for 5 hours, it will cover 300 miles.

4.Using patterns to identify trends:

Patterns can be used to identify trends in data. For example, a company might use patterns in sales data
to identify trends in customer demand. This information can then be used to make informed decisions
about product development, marketing, and pricing. These are just a few examples of problem-solving
with patterns. Patterns can be found in all areas of life, and by learning to identify and understand
patterns, we can develop a more intuitive and efficient approach to problem-solving.
Here are some tips for problem-solving with patterns:

Look for patterns in the problem: The first step is to look for patterns in the problem itself. This may
involve identifying repeating elements, sequences, or relationships.

Use diagrams and visuals: Diagrams and visuals can be helpful for identifying patterns. For example, you
might create a graph or chart to visualize the data.

Try different approaches: If you can't identify a pattern right away, try different approaches. For
example, you might try breaking the problem down into smaller parts or looking for patterns in related
problems.

Be creative: Don't be afraid to be creative when looking for patterns. Sometimes, the most effective
way to solve a problem is to think outside the box. Problem-solving with patterns is a valuable skill that
can be used in all areas of life. By learning to identify and understand patterns, we can develop a more
intuitive and efficient approach to solving problems.

TRANSLATING WORD PROBLEMS INTO MATHEMATICAL SEQUENCES

To translate a word problem into a mathematical sequence, we first need to identify the underlying
pattern. Once we have identified the pattern, we can express it mathematically using a sequence.

Sequence Example:

Use a difference table to predict the next term in the sequence 2, 7, 24, 59, 118, 207....

Solution Construct a difference table as shown below.

sequence: 2, 7, 24, 59, 118, 207, 332

first differences: 5,17,35,59,89,125

second differences: 12,18,24,30,36

third differences: 6,6,6,6

The third differences, shown in blue, are all the same constant, 6. Extending this row so that it includes
an additional 6 enables us to predict that the next second difference will be 36. Adding 36 to the first
difference 89 gives us the next first difference, 125. Adding 125 to the sixth term 207 yields 332. Using
the method of extending the difference table, we predict that 332 is the next term in the sequence.

Another example, consider the following word problem:

To solve this problem, we can translate it into the following mathematical sequence:

10, 20, 40, 80, 160, 320

The first term of the sequence is 10, and the common ratio is 2. To find the number of rabbits in
December, we can simply evaluate the sixth term of the sequence. This gives us 320 rabbits.

Here is another example:

A jeepney driver earns P100 on his first day of work. His earnings increase by P5 each day. How much
money will he earn on his 7th day of work?

To solve this problem, we can translate it into the following mathematical sequence:

100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130

The first term of the sequence is 100, and the common difference is 5. To find the driver's earnings on
his 7th day of work, we can simply evaluate the 7th term of the sequence. This gives us P130.

Therefore, the jeepney driver will earn P130 on his 7th day of work.

ARITHMETIC
An arithmetic sequence is a sequence of numbers where the differences between every two
consecutive terms is the same.

Some arithmetic sequence examples include:

1. 1, 5, 9, 13, 17, 21, 25, 29, 33, ...

The constant value can be derived by taking the difference between any two adjacent terms.

For example: 9 - 5 = 4 and 33 - 29 = 4. Therefore, 4 represents the constant value.

Using the expression above: 1, (1 + 4), (1 + 2(4)), (1 + 3(4)), (1 + 4(4)), ...

2. 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, ...

In this simple arithmetic series, the constant value between adjacent terms is 2.

Using the expression above: 2, (2 + 2), (2 + 2(2)), (2 + 3(2)), (2 + 4(2) ),.

A visual pattern refers to a regular and repeated arrangement of visual elements, such as shapes, colors,
lines, or textures, in a way that creates a recognizable and coherent design. Visual patterns can be found
in various forms and contexts, ranging from art and design to nature and mathematics.

Examples of visual patterns.

Checkered Pattern: Alternating squares of two distinct colors, typically black and white.

Stripes: Horizontal or vertical lines of different colors.

Plaid Pattern: Intersecting horizontal and vertical bands of multiple colors.

Geometric Pattern
A geometric pattern is a sequence in which each term is equal to the previous term multiplied by a
constant number, called the common ratio. For example, 8, 16, 32, __, 128, It is a geometric pattern, as
each term in the sequence can be obtained by multiplying 2 with the previous term.

For example, 32 is the third term in the sequence, which is obtained by multiplying 2 with the previous
term 16. Likewise, we can find the unknown terms in the geometric pattern.

First missing term: The previous term is 32. Multiply 32 by 2, we get 64.

Second missing term: The previous term is 128. Multiply 128 by 2, we get 256.

Hence, the complete geometric pattern is 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, 256

Geometric Patterns and Symmetry: Analyzing tessellations, fractals, and symmetrical figures to solve
spatial and visual problems.
Problem:

Identify the missing shape in the following sequence:

, , , , ___ ,

Solution:

In this sequence, the number of sides in each shape is increasing by one, following a pattern of counting
in order. Therefore, the missing shape would be a heptagon, which has seven sides. So, the complete
sequence is:

Triangle, Square, Pentagon, Hexagon, Heptagon, Octagon

, , , , ,

This example demonstrates how abstract reasoning involves recognizing and applying patterns or rules
to identify missing elements within a sequence of shapes.

Fibonacci Sequence

The Fibonacci Sequence is a series of numbers that starts with 0 and 1, and each subsequent number is
the sum of the two preceding numbers.

Starting with 0 and 1, write the first 5 Fibonacci numbers.

Solution:

The formula for the Fibonacci sequence is Fn= Fn-1+Fn-2

The first and second terms are 0 and 1, respectively.

F0 = 0 and F1 = 1.

F2 = F0 + F1 = 0+1 = 1 is the third term.

F3 = F2+F1 = 1 + 1 = 2 is the fourth term.

F4 = F3+F2 = 1+2 = 3 is the fifth term.

The Fibonacci sequence’s first five terms are 0,1,1,2,3.