Hi there! I am Studyfin, your learning buddy. Today we will explore how to find patterns and predict what comes next!
A pattern is a design or sequence that repeats in a regular way. Your brain is great at finding these repeats in numbers, shapes, and colors.
Once you find the pattern, you can make a prediction. To predict means to use clues to guess what will happen next before it even arrives.
Let us model how to find a pattern. Look at the shapes: Circle, Square, Circle, Square. The pattern is Circle then Square, so the next shape must be a Circle!
✏️ Worked example
Look at this sequence of numbers: 3, 6, 9, 12, ___. What is the next number in this pattern?
Step 1: Look at the first two numbers, 3 and 6. To get from 3 to 6, we add 3.
Step 2: Check the next transition from 6 to 9. We add 3 again.
Step 3: Check the next transition from 9 to 12. Once more, we add 3.
Step 4: Identify the rule of the pattern. The rule is 'add 3 each time'.
Step 5: Apply the rule to the last number. Add 3 to 12. 12 + 3 = 15.
Step 6: Predict the next number. The missing number is 15!
Want the full interactive lesson — quiz, animations, and Finn cheering them on?
Studyfin
✨ Sign up free
