New Gcse: Sequences

I've been busy getting my caput to a greater extent than or less the additional sequences content inward the novel nine - 1 Maths GCSE in addition to idea it would endure helpful to part my findings. Quite a lot has been added to the higher tier. Previously students covered all the GCSE sequences content at Key Stage iii thence at that topographic point was nil novel to instruct at Key Stage 4. But directly nosotros take away to include a few weeks' worth of sequences lessons inward our GCSE schemes of work.

We've gone from this (from the current Pearson Edexcel Specification - GCSE 2012 Maths A):

...to this (from the new Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) inward Mathematics):

All the linear sequences content remains (see my previous post nigh methods for finding an nth term). The terms arithmetic progression and geometric progression are directly used inward both the specification in addition to sample assessment materials - price I ordinarily don't innovate to students until Year 12.

Let's guide maintain a await at the novel content inward detail.

1. "Recognise in addition to purpose sequences of triangular, foursquare in addition to cube numbers"
There's no specific elevate of triangular numbers inward the electrical flow Key Stage iii in addition to iv curricula. I've ever covered triangular numbers every bit an enrichment theme at Key Stage iii anyway, only directly students could endure examined on this. It's probable that square, cube in addition to triangular numbers volition come upward up inward Venn Diagram questions similar inward this activity from Flash Maths:

If you're looking for resources for square, cube in addition to triangular publish sequences in addition to then there's enough available, similar this Don Steward and algebra library.

I promise this post has helped y'all figure out how this theme has changed nether the novel GCSE specifications. Let me know what y'all think.