Pascal’s Triangle & Binomial Theorem In-Class Project

Group Members ______________________________________Period ____

In this project, you will investigate Pascal’s Triangle and its relationship to binomial coefficients. These
topics bridge the gap between algebra, probability, geometry, and number theory.

I. Pascal’s Triangle (15 pts)

Create a Pascal’s Triangle on the sheet provided.

Find and show another interesting fact about Pascal’s Triangle. Possibilities could include patterns
within the triangle, the connection between Pascal’s Triangle and fractals like Sierpinski’s Triangle, or
probability/combinatorics. You should include at least one paragraph (five sentences) written
explanation, plus a visual demonstration of the interesting fact.

To make your triangle, start with a 1 at the top center of a page. Around that 1, envision a sea of
zeros. Each number in the next row will be the sum of the two numbers above it. If there’s only one
number above, then it’s like adding zero, and the number below will be the same. The zeroth, first,
and second rows are below.

1
1 1
1 2 1

II. Binomial Coefficients (30pts)

1. Write 𝑎 + 𝑏 ! as a polynomial in standard form. Show work (FOIL/distributive property).

2. Write 𝑎 + 𝑏 ! as a polynomial in standard form. Show work. (FOIL/distributive property).

 III. Write 𝑎 + 𝑏 ! as a polynomial in standard form. Show work (FOIL/distributive property).

4. Compare the number of terms you get with the power used. What do you notice?

5. What patterns do you see in the exponents?

6. What patterns do you see in the coefficients?

!
7. Write 𝑎 + 𝑏 as a polynomial in standard form without multiplying / showing work.