• East Asian mathematical journal
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• v.40 no.2
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• pp.209-229
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• 2024

In this study, we design a teaching unit that constructs Pascal graphs and extended Pascal triangles to explore number patterns inherent in them. This teaching unit is designed to consider the diachronic process of teaching-learning by combining Dörfler's theoretical generalization model with Wittmann's design science ideas, which are applied to the didactical practice of mathematization. In the teaching unit, considering the teaching-learning level of prospective teachers who studied discrete mathematics, we generalize the well-known Pascal triangle and its number patterns to extended Pascal triangles which have directed graphs(called Pascal graphs) as geometric models. In this process, the use of symbols and the introduction of variables are exhibited as important means of generalization. It provides practical experiences of mathematization to prospective teachers by going through various steps of the generalization process targeting symbols. This study reflects Wittmann's intention in that well-understood mathematics and the context of the first type of empirical research as structure-genetic didactical analysis are considered in the design of the learning environment.