What’s a Fibonacci sequence?

The Basic Idea

Children investigate the Fibonacci sequence and use objects outside to recreate it!

In more detail…

I recently showed a class of Year Two children a video which has been around for a couple of months- it is a series of 3d models (printed using a 3d printer) based on the Fibonacci sequence. Here is a link on Vimeo of the above models.

There are some amazing images of the sequence to be found in nature. Depending on the age of the children, the sequence of the spiral can be discussed and explained. Show the children how to make the sequence and set it out. The children are then to collect sticks, leaves or pebbles etc. to lay out and create their own version of the Fibonacci sequence.

Demonstrate how the sequence can be checked by adding up the previous two numbers in the sequence. 1

1

2 (1 + 1)

3 (2 + 1)

5 (3 + 2)

8 (5 + 3)

MS

How to take it even further or make it more challenging

Using what they have learnt from the sequence, they can then explore how the ratio can be used in 2d shapes. Squares – with the next square’s length being the same as the previous two added together. A large space is needed to continue this. Cones could be used to mark out the corners of each square.