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Find the sum of the first t terms.

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高二選擇性必修 第二册(A版).pdf · 4.1 · PDF 7 / printed page 2

TOPIC 01

Concept of a sequence

Connect general terms, recurrence relations and partial sums.

What you will be able to explain

  • Connect general terms, recurrence relations and partial sums.
  • Justify the method and check the conditions in a new situation.

Try it. Leave your reasoning visible.

Use one hint at a time. A correction explains what changed, not just the final answer.

01 / Transfer#Your turn

Find the sum of the first t terms.

an=1n(n+1),t=13a_n=\frac1{n(n+1)},\quad t=13
  • Indices are positive integers; a1=S1 needs separate treatment.
Skills and prerequisite lessons

Working and explanation

BUILD THE REASONING

Hint 1
Express the indexed terms or partial sums before simplifying.
Hint 2
Use this intermediate relation.
1/[n(n+1)]=1/n−1/(n+1)1/[n(n+1)]=1/n-1/(n+1)
Worked solution
  1. Express the indexed terms or partial sums before simplifying.

  2. Apply the stated relation and retain its conditions.

    St=(1−1/2)+(1/2−1/3)+⋯+(1/13−1/14)S_t=(1-1/2)+(1/2-1/3)+\cdots+(1/13-1/14)
  3. Apply the stated relation and retain its conditions.

    St=1−1/14=13/14S_t=1-1/14=13/14
  4. Retain the two boundary terms after telescoping.

The requested value is 0.928571428571.

Checks and common pitfalls: Retain the two boundary terms after telescoping.

Think first. Reveal a hint when the class is ready.

Focus on one question

Teacher preparation and assessment

Question sequence

  • Connect general terms, recurrence relations and partial sums.
  • Which condition is essential in concept of a sequence?
  • Does a partial-sum formula automatically work at n=0?

Board plan

  • Defining relation: Connect general terms, recurrence relations and partial sums.
    an=Sn−Sn−1 (n≥2)a_n=S_n-S_{n-1}\ (n\ge2)
  • Conditions: Indices are positive integers; a1=S1 needs separate treatment.

Anticipated thinking

  • Using S0 from a formula stated only for n≥1 can give a wrong first term.

Assessment checklist

  • 1 mark: choose the correct representation and conditions.
  • 1 mark: establish the intermediate relation.
  • 1 mark: complete a connected calculation or proof.
  • 1 mark: interpret and check the conclusion.

No sign-in. Work stays in this browser. Export before clearing browser data. Written reasoning is assessed with a checklist.

Curriculum and source notes ↗