Geometric Sequence

A lesson that defines and introduces geometric sequences to students through example.  It shows students how to evaluate the nth term of a geometric sequence, then the common ratio.  This lesson introduces and demonstrates the usage of a finite geometric series pattern using real-world examples.  While it does not address or derive the formula for the sum of a geometric series, a student's thorough understanding of geometric progressions and evaluating a common ratio using this lesson can lead up to other lessons which introduce that formula and its applications.

Weblink address (URL): 
Geometric Sequence

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 
  • Applies special number relationships such as sequences and series to real-world problems.
     

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding
Extension suggestions: 
  • Students should know the definition of a sequence and sum of finite sequence beforehand. It maybe helpful if students learned about geometric sequence after the introduction of arithmetic sequence.

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • Transparency (see attached file)
  • Overhead Projector
  • Marker 
  • Worksheet, one per student (see attached file)

References

Contributors: 
Jeffrey Hill
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation