Pattern Rules and Predictions

Pattern Rules and Predictions

What students learn

Students learn how patterns repeat, grow, and reveal a rule. Open with Patterns: See What Repeats and Grows to notice the structure first.

Why it matters

When students can describe a pattern rule, they can predict the next term instead of guessing. Patterns: Predict the Next Term shows how the structure leads to a prediction.

Learn the idea

Some patterns change by adding or multiplying each time, and some repeat in a cycle. Patterns: Explain the Rule with Words helps students put that relationship into clear math language.

Try it

Ask the student to describe these patterns: 3, 6, 9, 12; red, blue, red, blue; 5, 10, 20, 40. Then have them explain the rule and predict the next term.

Parent guide

Keep the work visual with blocks, dots, drawings, or objects. Ask the child what changes, what stays the same, and how the next term follows the rule.