Growing Patterns: Fibonacci Numbers in Nature
illustrations by
on Goodreads (258)
What’s inside...
ALSC Notable Children's BookA 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.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Can you find patterns in the book that you've seen in nature? Which ones?
How do you think understanding patterns helps scientists and mathematicians?
Why do you think the Fibonacci sequence appears so frequently in nature?
What do you feel when you see patterns in nature? Does it change how you view the world around you?
How do you think the book would be different if it didn’t have any pictures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Connect the discussion to your child's surroundings by taking a walk in nature, pointing out patterns found in plants, flowers, and shells.
Encourage your child to draw or create some patterns seen in the book using art supplies, fostering a deeper connection and understanding.
Validate your child's thoughts and contributions to the conversation to build confidence and encourage further exploration and curiosity.
Relate the book’s themes to personal experiences or family stories where patterns played a role, making the session more relevant and engaging.
Use the book’s illustrations to guide the conversation, asking the child to point out and describe different Fibonacci patterns in the images.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding patterns in nature
Explanation: The book illustrates how Fibonacci sequences appear in various natural settings, such as in the arrangement of leaves or the spirals of a shell.
Real-World Application: Children can observe and identify patterns in their environment, enhancing their analytical and observational skills.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of mathematics
Explanation: By linking mathematical concepts to real-world examples, the book makes learning about numbers engaging and relevant.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to see math as not just an abstract school subject, but as a tool to understand the world, boosting their interest in STEM subjects.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity and inquiry
Explanation: The book prompts readers to question and explore how and why patterns occur in nature, fostering a sense of curiosity.
Real-World Application: This mindset can motivate children to explore, ask questions, and seek answers in all areas of their lives, promoting lifelong learning.
Example Lesson: Connection between different disciplines
Explanation: Intertwining nature with mathematics showcases the interdisciplinary nature of learning and knowledge.
Real-World Application: Children learn that skills and knowledge in one area can be applied to many other areas, encouraging adaptability and innovative thinking.