Build a Number Pattern
On November 23, you may hear someone mention Fibonacci Day. The date 11/23 resembles the first four numbers in a common version of the Fibonacci sequence: 1, 1, 2, 3. A sequence is a list of numbers arranged in a particular order. Follow these directions to build one and keep it growing.
What you need
- Paper and a pencil
- Small blank paper squares to use as number tiles
- A separate sheet of paper for checking your addition
1. Set up the starting numbers
Write 1 on each of two paper squares. Place them side by side, from left to right. These are the first two terms, or numbers, in your sequence.
There are different ways to start writing a Fibonacci sequence. For this activity, use the convention that begins with 1, 1. Starting with two numbers is important because you will use both of them to find the next term.
2. Add the two latest terms
Add the two numbers at the end of your row: 1 + 1 = 2. Write 2 on a new tile and place it to the right. Your row should now read 1, 1, 2.
- convention:
- A commonly used way of doing something.
- extend:
- To make something longer.
- immediately:
- Directly, with nothing in between.
- neighboring:
- Next to each other.
- resemblance:
- A likeness or similarity.
- calculation:
- The process of using math to find an answer.
One passage, many ways to practice
Reading-skill questions, word work and writing prompts — all built from this text.
Main Idea
Identify the central idea and explain how important details develop it.
Context Clues
Use clues in the passage to work out what words mean. A separate printable Vocabulary worksheet is also available.
Summarize
Select, organize, and restate the most important information without adding opinion.
Purpose
Analyze what the author aims to do and how choices serve audience and purpose.
Structure
Analyze how sections and organizational choices build the text's ideas or effects.
Vocabulary
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Writing Prompts
Use the passage as a springboard for short written responses, from personal reflection to evidence-based arguments.
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Preview questions from this passageShowHide
- 1How does the date of Fibonacci Day connect to the starting numbers in the activity?
- 2Why does the activity begin with two number tiles?
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About this instructions passage for Upper Elementary
“Build a Number Pattern” is a instructions reading passage about Fibonacci sequence, written for Upper Elementary. It takes about 4 minutes to read (525 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.