This book synthesizes research findings on patterns in the last twenty years or so in order to argue for a theory of graded representations in pattern generalization. While research results drawn from investigations conducted with different age-level groups have sufficiently demonstrated varying shifts in structural awareness and competence, which influence the eventual shape of an intended generalization, such shifts, however, are not necessarily permanent due to other pertinent factors such as the complexity of patterning tasks. The book proposes an alternative view of pattern generalization, that is, one that is not about shifts or transition phases but graded depending on individual experiences with target patterns. The theory of graded representations involving pattern generalization offers a much more robust understanding of differences in patterning competence since it is sensitive to varying levels of entry into generalization. Empirical evidence will be provided to demonstrate this alternative view, which is drawn from the author’s longitudinal work with elementary and middle school children, including several investigations conducted with preservice elementary majors. Two chapters of the book will be devoted to extending pattern generalization activity to arithmetic and algebraic learning of concepts and processes. The concluding chapter addresses the pedagogical significance of pattern learning in the school mathematics curriculum. ​

Resnik expresses his commitment to a structuralist philosophy of mathematics and links this to a defence of realism about the metaphysics of mathematics - the view that mathematics is about things that really exist.

Patterns are found in math, reading, science, music, art, dance, and poetry—and in the world all around us. They are also found in this delightful book written by educator Trudy Harris. Children will love the humor and predictability of this story, and teachers and parents alike will appreciate the pattern hunt that will send kids back into the book looking for more patterns again and again.

From rainbows, river meanders, and shadows to spider webs, honeycombs, and the markings on animal coats, the visible world is full of patterns that can be described mathematically. Examining such readily observable phenomena, this book introduces readers to the beauty of nature as revealed by mathematics and the beauty of mathematics as revealed in nature. Generously illustrated, written in an informal style, and replete with examples from everyday life, Mathematics in Nature is an excellent and undaunting introduction to the ideas and methods of mathematical modeling. It illustrates how mathematics can be used to formulate and solve puzzles observed in nature and to interpret the solutions. In the process, it teaches such topics as the art of estimation and the effects of scale, particularly what happens as things get bigger. Readers will develop an understanding of the symbiosis that exists between basic scientific principles and their mathematical expressions as well as a deeper appreciation for such natural phenomena as cloud formations, halos and glories, tree heights and leaf patterns, butterfly and moth wings, and even puddles and mud cracks. Developed out of a university course, this book makes an ideal supplemental text for courses in applied mathematics and mathematical modeling. It will also appeal to mathematics educators and enthusiasts at all levels, and is designed so that it can be dipped into at leisure.

ALSC Notable Children's Book A wonderful introduction to one of the most beautiful connections between mathematics and the natural world–the Fibonacci sequence–through a series of stunning nature photographs. Discover the biggest mathematical mystery in nature—Fibonacci numbers! Named after a famous mathematician, the number pattern is simple and starts with: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13. Each number in the sequence comes from adding the two numbers before it. What's the mystery? The pattern crops up in the most unexpected places. You'll find it in the disk of a sunflower, the skin of a pineapple, and the spiral of a nautilus shell. This book brings math alive, celebrates science, and will inspire kids to see nature through new eyes.