Solving Word Problems with Arithmetic and Geometric Sequences

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This educational math video guides students through the process of solving real-world word problems using arithmetic and geometric sequences. Narrated by Justin, the video uses three distinct scenarios—a wildlife rescue with multiplying rabbits, a bowler tracking scores, and a streamer losing followers—to demonstrate how mathematical sequences apply to everyday situations. The video emphasizes a structured problem-solving approach: first determining if a pattern is arithmetic or geometric, then deciding whether an explicit or recursive formula is most appropriate for the specific question being asked. Key themes include distinguishing between additive (arithmetic) and multiplicative (geometric) patterns, understanding the utility of explicit formulas for finding specific terms versus recursive formulas for generating lists, and substituting values into algebraic formulas. The video explicitly models the thought process required to translate text-based scenarios into mathematical equations. This resource is highly valuable for Algebra students bridging the gap between abstract sequence concepts and concrete applications. It provides clear modeling of metacognitive strategies—asking "what kind of sequence is this?" and "which formula do I need?" before attempting to calculate. Teachers can use this video to introduce word problems, reinforce formula selection skills, or as a review tool for identifying patterns in data.