Unit 9: Sequences and Functions
9.1 Generating Sequences
Key Knowledge:
A sequence is an ordered list of numbers following a pattern.
Types of sequences:
Linear (arithmetic): Constant difference (e.g., 2, 5, 8, 11, ...).
Geometric: Constant ratio (e.g., 3, 6, 12, 24, ...).
Non-linear: Follows other patterns (e.g., square numbers: 1, 4, 9, 16, ...).
Question Types:
Generate the next 3 terms: 7, 11, 15, ___ → 19, 23, 27 (difference = +4).
Identify the sequence type: 2, 4, 8, 16 → Geometric (×2).
9.2 Finding Rules for Sequences
Key Knowledge:
Linear sequences: Rule = ( Start term + (n − 1) × Difference).
Example: 5, 9, 13, ... → Rule: ( 5 + (n − 1) × 4 = 4n + 1).
Non-linear sequences: Look for square, cube, or Fibonacci patterns.
Question Types:
Write the rule for 6, 10, 14, 18, ... → ( 4n + 2 ).
Find the missing term: 3, 7, ___, 15, 19 → 11 (rule: ( +4 )).
9.3 Using the nth Term
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Key Knowledge:
The ( nth ) term formula calculates any term directly.
For linear sequences: ( nth term = an + b), where ( a ) = difference, ( b ) =
adjustment.
Example: Sequence 8, 13, 18, ... → ( nth )term = (5n + 3).
Question Types:
Find the ( 10th ) term of 7, 12, 17, ... → ( 5n + 2 ); 10th term = 52.
Determine if 100 is in the sequence ( 3n - 1 ). → Yes (n = 33.67? No, must be whole).
9.4 Representing Simple Functions
Key Knowledge:
Function notation: ( f(x) = 2x + 3 ).
Input-output tables: Substitute ( x )-values to find ( f(x) ).
Graphs: Linear functions produce straight lines (e.g., ( y = 2x )).
Question Types:
Complete the table for ( f(x) = x - 4 ) (given ( x = 5, 7 )) → 1, 3.
Plot the graph of ( y = -x + 2 ) and identify the intercepts.
Summary Table
Sub-Topic Key Concepts Example Questions
9.1 Generating Sequences Linear, geometric, and non-linear patterns. "Next 3 terms: 12, 7, 2, ___" → -3, -8, -13.
9.2 Finding Rules ( nth term = an + b). "Rule for 10, 16, 22, ...?" → ( 6n + 4 ).
9.3 Using nth Term Calculate any term directly. "50th term of ( 2n - 5 )?" → 95.
9.4 Representing Functions Input-output tables, graphs, notation. "Solve ( f(3) ) for ( f (x) = x2 )" → 9.
Common Mistakes & Tips
Linear vs. non-linear: Check for constant differences first.
nth term: Ensure ( n ) starts at 1 (e.g., ( n=1 ) = first term).
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Graphs: Label axes and plot points accurately.
Real-World Applications:
Sequences: Savings growth, stair design, or tile patterns.
Functions: Calculating costs (e.g., ( f(x) = 5x ) for ( x ) items at £5 each).
Practice Questions:
1. Find the ( nth ) term of 20, 17, 14, 11, ... → ( -3n + 23 ).
2. Is 47 in the sequence ( 4n + 3 )? → Yes (n = 11).
3. Plot ( y = 12 x − 1) for ( x = 0, 2, 4 ).
Exercises
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