Number pyramids investigation 2

A complete lesson on number pyramids, with an emphasis on pupils forming and solving linear equations. An excellent way of getting pupils to think about equations in an unfamiliar setting, and to create their own questions and conjectures.

Activities included:

Starter:
A mini-investigation on three-tier number pyramids, to set the scene. One combination is best dealt with using a linear equation, and sets pupils up to access the more challenging task to come.

Main:
A prompt for pupils to consider four-tier number pyramids. Although this task has the potential to be extended in different ways, I have provided an initial focus and provided some responses that pupils could give, so you can get a clear idea of how the investigation might progress. I would spend the rest of the lesson responding to pupils’ work and questions, and probably get pupils to make posters of their findings or discuss their work with other pupils.

Please review if you buy as any feedback is appreciated!