Different Ways of Looking at the Patterns




A lot of mathematic observations can be made by looking at the patterns numbers make. Using graph paper with different size blocks, have your students color according to number patterns. First have them build the patterns using Unifix cubes. For example, the number two would have two colors in an A-B-A-B pattern. Have them then pick one of the colors and trace the patterns they make in the blocks with a black marker.








Notice how my fourth student would color each block of the pattern in order, my third student would get the pattern and color whole sections, one color at at time and that my second would color one color at a time.
They can then transfer those patterns to other materials.

Here they are using toothpicks in groups of four.

This makes an easy bridge to the patterns of multiplication.



Multiplication seems less scary and foreign if it is considered as patterns because patterns are familiar even to a young child.


And this is a great book to go with a study of patterns.
The Zills are visiting Peru to study the mysterious lost city of Quwi when Matt and Bibi stumble into an adventure. With only each other, their faithful dog Riley, and an unusual ancient relic to guide them, the twins must use their understanding of patterns and sequences to locate the lost city--and the way back. This companion to Mummy Math is a pattern-packed adventure in math that's perfect for young readers.


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