Problem Solving: Pattern Blocks

Pattern blocks are a familiar manipulative in most elementary classrooms.  Students learn a lot of geometry from informally interacting with pattern blocks.  These problem-solving activities were specifically designed to target important mathematical concepts using these available manipulatives.

• In Pattern Block Symmetry students must create a pattern block design to satisy the given conditions involving line symmetry and the number of different pattern block pieces used.
• Pattern Block Design (Grade 3) requires students to create a design to meet specified criteria.
• Pattern Block Design (Grade 4) requires students to create a design to meet specified criteria.
• Hexagon Dragons challenges students to use an input-output table to record dragon growth, then analyze the pattern and write a rule for dragon growth.
• In Fir Tree, students must use an input-output table to record and analyze data, then write a rule for this growing pattern.
• Symmetric Snowflake challenges students to use pattern blocks to complete the snowflake design so that it has line symmetry.