Today we are learning to:

• identify and extend patterns
• use algebra to describe pattern rules
• represent relationships using a table of values

Let me introduce our Minecraft project.  I cannot take credit for this. Thanks to my grade 8 student Isaac, we have developed a pretty cool “game”.

Using Minecraft students are creating and extending block patterns. Players of the game must solve each pattern in Minecraft, before they can proceed to the next pattern.

Each game must have a minimum of ten patterns, each more difficult than the previous. Some students are adding switches to open doors if you guess the correct pattern. Some students are creating dead ends if you guess the pattern incorrectly.

Students are collaborating in groups and using words I don’t know. And that is OK. We are learning together. I can help with algebraic expressions and they can show me how Minecraft even works.

Traditionally, students would solve textbook questions by creating a table of values for a pattern. Instead, our students have to first create their own patters, solve them and build them.

As I write this, I have students building Minecraft pattern blocks and face-timing each other from different parts of the school.

As we conclude this activity, I will see about recording some game-play videos. Until then, stay tuned!

How would you extend this project?