Domino Sequences

Find the next two terms in each case:

Why do this problem?

This problem introduces sequences in a simple way using a familiar resource. The sequences become increasingly complex so that there is also a challenge for learners.

Possible approach

You might need to spend some time exploring dominoes in general before tackling this problem, depending on how familiar the children are with dominoes.

Look at the first sequence together, perhaps using giant dominoes on the floor, or some on the interactive whiteboard (you might find our Dominoes Environment useful). Ask children to talk in pairs about what they notice and then share ideas with the whole group. Then invite them to suggest how the pattern could be continued, focusing on their explanations and justifications.

Once the learners have tried this first one together, they should be able to work in their pairs on the rest of the problem. They might find this sheet of the problem useful.

Key questions

What do you notice about the numbers at the top of the dominoes? What will the next one be?

What do you notice about the numbers at the bottom of the dominoes? What will the next one be?

Can you explain the pattern?

Possible extension

Learners could use dominoes to make their own sequences for a friend to continue. They could make some sequences with a nine-spot set of dominoes, using this sheet of them.

Possible support

Having a number line or number square available to mark off numbers might help children identify a pattern.

Handouts for teachers are available here (word document, pdf document), with the problem on one side and the notes on the other.