Students investigate a pattern using the constant function on the calculator, record the results displayed on the calculator, and describe how the constant key works.

Students will explore the following concepts in this activity:

• whole numbers
• addition
• comparing numbers
• multiplication
• estimation
• functions

Distribute the student activity sheet to students, and demonstrate the procedure for the activity. Have students choose a constant function and a beginning number, and make predictions as to what will be displayed each time they press the constant function key on the calculator.

After students have investigated several different constant functions and beginning numbers, have them work as a whole group to analyze the patterns.