Download 4.7 – Sequences and Functions

4.7 – Sequences and
Functions
Vocabulary
1. Sequence – an ordered list of numbers
that often form a pattern
2. Term – each number in the sequence
Describe the pattern in each sequence
5, 8, 11, 14, …
The pattern is to “add 3” to
the previous term!
What are the next two terms?
14 + 3 = 17 and 17 + 3 = 20
So the next two terms are:
17 and 20
Describe the pattern in each sequence
400, 200, 100, 50, …
The pattern is to multiply the
previous term by ½
What are the next two terms?
50(1/2) = 25 and 25(1/2) = 12.5
So the next two terms are:
25 and 12.5
Just two more vocab words!
3. Arithmetic Sequence – this is a pattern in
which the difference between
consecutive terms is constant
i.e. A pattern in which you add or subtract by the
same number every time
4. Common Difference – the constant
difference in an arithmetic sequence
Tell whether the sequence is arithmetic. If it
is, identify the common difference.
19, 8, -3, -14, …
YES! 
The common difference is….
-11 WHY????
Tell whether the sequence is arithmetic. If it
is, identify the common difference.
10, -20, 40, -80 …
No! 
Exit Slip:
Get out a half sheet of paper.
Answer the following questions all by
yourself.
Exit Slip:
1. Describe the pattern and give the next
two terms: 1, 3, 9, 27, …
2. Write an arithmetic sequence with 5
terms that has a common difference of
10.