Fibonacci Spirals

May 11, 2021 | Hinsdale

Mathematics is all about patterns. Let’s talk about some of the most famous patterns. Today’s post is all about Fibonacci. First, here is the pattern:

1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144

Before you read on, can you figure out what the rule is for this pattern?

Big Name, Simple Rule

To figure out what the next number in a Fibonacci patterns is, just add the last two together! So 1+1=2, 2+3=5, 3+5=8, 5+8=13, and so on. You can even make your own Fibonacci pattern if you pick any two numbers as the first two in your sequence. Fibonacci picked 1 and 1, because they were the simplest place to start. Read more about the basics here: https://mammothmemory.net/maths/algebra/sequences/fibonacci-sequence.html

Try it: with a friend, write down your favorite number and your friend’s favorite number. Then add them together to get a third number. Keep adding the last two to get the next until you have a nice long sequence.

Isn’t it Beautiful?

The numbers in any Fibonacci sequence have an interesting property: the numbers eventually match up with the Golden Ratio and the Golden Spiral, both of which are found in art and in nature. So many famous buildings and artworks seem to match up to the same pattern. Trees and flowers often have leaves and petals with the numbers in the Fibonacci sequence. Check out this video from Vi Hart on Youtube (link) about examples of Fibonacci numbers in nature. (careful, she talks fast!)

Want a free star punch?

Take a picture of something you find in the real world that shows a growing spiral shape. Show it to Ms Antoinette or Ms Alex for 2 free punches!

Further Reading:

Fibonacci Hunt! https://www.mensaforkids.org/teach/lesson-plans/fabulous-fibonacci/

History and Misconceptions about Fibonacci: https://www.livescience.com/37470-fibonacci-sequence.html

 

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