Number Patterns!
Chapter 9: Finding What Comes Next
Patterns are everywhere! They help us predict what comes next. The secret? Notice what changes each time. This chapter is about thinking, not just counting.
Patterns All Around!
Riya claps her hands: clap-clap-pause, clap-clap-pause 🎵
"I know what comes next!" barks Milo. "What changed each time?"
Riya smiles. "That's the secret! Notice the change, and you can predict the future!"
Patterns are everywhere! Tap each card to see examples.
In a repeating pattern, the same numbers come back in order.
What comes next?
In a growing pattern, numbers get bigger by the same amount.
💡 Key idea: "Each time, the number grows by the same amount."
In a decreasing pattern, numbers get smaller by the same amount.
🧠 Think: "Each time, the number gets smaller. By how much?"
Look at the pattern. Which explanation matches?
One number is hidden! Can you figure out what it should be?
💡 Strategy: Look at the numbers around the gap. What's the step size?
Choose your settings and watch your pattern appear!
Questions & Answers
Finding what comes next
What is a number pattern?
It is a list of numbers that follows a rule. Once you find the rule, you can say what comes next.
How do I find the rule?
Look at the gap between numbers. In 3, 6, 9, 12 the gap is always 3. The rule is add three.
Can a pattern go down?
Yes. 20, 18, 16, 14 goes down by two each time. Patterns can grow or shrink.
Is skip counting a pattern?
Yes. Counting by twos, fives or tens is a pattern with an equal gap. It is the most useful pattern you will meet.
What if the gap keeps changing?
Then look for a different rule. Some patterns grow by 1, then 2, then 3. Check the gaps between the gaps.
Do patterns exist outside numbers?
Yes. Shapes, colours, sounds and days of the week all make patterns. Maths patterns are just one kind.
Why are patterns useful in maths?
Patterns let you predict without calculating everything. That is what all of maths tries to do.
How can I practise at home?
Make a pattern and ask someone to continue it. Clap a rhythm. Lay out spoons in a repeating order. Then say the rule out loud.
💜 Remember: Explanation matters more than speed. When your child says "The next number is 8," ask "How did you know?" The reasoning is the real learning.
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