Repeating patterns — Mathematics, 4–6 years
Notice a small order that repeats, and use it to predict what comes next. Mathematics, 4–6 years.
A pattern comes again
A repeating pattern has parts that return in the same order. For example, red, blue, red, blue uses a two-colour rule. Once you notice the rule, you can say what belongs in the next place.
Why patterns help
Patterns help us notice order instead of looking at every thing as new. People have always used repeating marks, sounds and movements to remember and predict events. Finding the rule means less guessing about what should come next.
Build the next part
Look at a row of blocks: yellow, green, green, yellow, green, green. First, find the part that repeats: yellow, green, green. Start that part again after the last green. The next block must therefore be yellow.
The almost-pattern
A common mistake is to spot the first two items and assume they repeat, even when the real unit has three or four. This happens because a short glimpse can fit more than one possible rule. Check several repeats before choosing the rule.
Patterns all around
You can find repeating patterns in tiled floors, striped clothes, songs and footsteps. Not every decoration has a simple repeating rule, so look for a part that returns exactly. The same habit helps you notice regular rhythms in everyday life.
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