Lesson Buffet

This activity encourages children to recognise the following patterns:
Even + even = even
Odd + odd = even
Even + odd = odd

Introduction

Using jotter pads, student write down numbers as fast as they can counting by 2’s starting from non-zero number. Give them two minutes. Students then stand up and say their numbers, last person standing wins.

Try the same game, but counting by 3’s.

Demonstrate on board how to create addition and subtraction equations using a dice. Give examples of adding and subtracting even numbers, odd numbers, and even with odd.

Activity

Students roll a 10-sided dice to create addition and subtraction equations* and beside each number created (including the answer), they note whether the number is odd or even.
*Teacher decides the number of digits based on students' ability

Look at patterns resulting from computations in relation to odd and even numbers. Guide children to recognise that:
Even + even = even
Odd + odd = even
Even + odd = odd

When students have recognised these patterns they can then attempt to write a statement to explain why these patterns occur.