Patterns are all around us

Examine the following pattern:

Using the same pattern rule, change dog to puppy and cat to kitten.

Record the new pattern with the changes in a notebook or a method of your choice.

Explore the next pattern:

Using the same pattern rule, change apple to carrot and banana to lettuce.

Record the new pattern with the changes in a notebook or a method of your choice.

Describing a pattern

A repeating pattern has a part that goes again and again. We call this the core.

Repeating patterns can also be described using letter codes.

For example, examine the following shape pattern:

We can say A every time there is a triangle and B every time there is a square.

The pattern can be called A B A B.

The core of the pattern is A B because this part repeats.

We name this pattern by its core.

It is called an A B pattern.

Pattern practice

Let’s explore the following patterns:

After exploring each pattern, reflect on the following questions:

• How would you describe these patterns?
• What do you notice about the patterns?
• What will be the next shape in each pattern? What letter would you label the next shape?
• Can you label the last shape in the patterns with an A? Why or why not?

Record your ideas in a notebook or a method of your choice.

Create a pattern

Create a repeating pattern and show the core (the part that goes again and again).

Use blocks, cubes, or other materials you have, or record your response in a notebook or a method of your choice.

Label each part of your repeating pattern using a letter.

Labelling patterns

Explore the following pattern:

Would the A B letters work when labeling this pattern? How do you know? How can we label this pattern using letters?

Record your ideas in a notebook or a method of your choice.

Try it yourself

Label each of the patterns in the following fillable and printable Labelling Patterns worksheet. You can also complete this activity in your notebook or use another method of your choice.

What do you notice about the patterns?

Reflection

How do you feel about what you have learned in this activity? Which of the next four sentences best matches how you are feeling about your learning? Press the button that is beside this sentence.

Now, record your ideas about your feelings using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.