Nuffield Foundation

Average limits

Microsite
Microsite: 
Applying Mathematical Processes [1]

Download resources:

Average limits pupil stimulus [2]

 

[3]

 

Average limits progression table [4]
Average limits spreadsheet [5]
Average limits teacher notes [6]

Average limits ALL documents [7]

Description:  Pupils choose two numbers X and Y and find their mean. Then they replace X with Y and replace Y with the mean. They find the mean of these two numbers and then, using an iterative process, investigate what happens.

It is intended that this investigation be done using a calculator or computer

Suitability: Pupils working at all levels;individuals or pairs 

Time: 1 hour upwards

Equipment: Calculator or computer spreadsheet for introduction and/or to work through examples as required

Key mathematical language: Mean, iterate, converge, limiting value, conjecture, decimal places, rounding, variables, algebraic expression

 


Source URL: http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/applying-mathematical-processes/average-limits

Links:
[1] http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/AMP
[2] http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/../../sites/default/files/files/Average_limits_pupil_stimulus.pdf
[3] http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/../../applying-mathematical-processes/average-limits
[4] http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/../../sites/default/files/files/Average_limits_progression_table_pupil.doc
[5] http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/../../sites/default/files/files/AMP%20Average%20limits%20spreadsheet.xls
[6] http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/../../sites/default/files/files/Average_limits_teacher_notes.pdf
[7] http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/../../sites/default/files/files/Average_limits.zip