Algebra connect 4 counters project for exploring and analyzing number patterns.
Print instructions: Connect-Four-Pattern-Project
Patterns
Create one of the following patterns using connect four counters. Build shapes 3, 4 and 5 of your pattern.
Pattern 1
Pattern 2
Pattern 3
Pattern 4
Project outline:
Choose one pattern from patterns 1 – 4. Decide how the pattern continues – there may be more than one approach.
Draw the first five shapes on paper with red and yellow pencils (or any other two colours).
Predict how many total, how many red, how many yellow counters will be in your 10th shape!
Generalise to the 
shape. Define the letters you use as variables. Create a formula for each of: the number of red counters in the shape, yellow counters and total counters.
Explain how your formula arise from the shape pattern. Video example of shape pattern to formula.
Finally, create and investigate your own connect-4 counter pattern.
Graphing applet
(or graph directly on geogebra.org)