Illuminations: Calculating Patterns

Calculating Patterns


In this sequence of lessons, students represent patterns in different ways. They solve problems; make, explain, and defend conjectures; make generalizations; and extend and clarify their knowledge.

Math Content

  • Patterns and number relationships
  • Number concepts
  • Representation of numbers in multiple ways
  • Problem solving
  • Logical reasoning

Individual Lessons

Lesson 1 - Finding Properties for Sorting

Students sort objects and observe the properties others use for sorting. This activity helps students understand and connect many mathematical ideas. By labeling their sorts, students connect number with sets of objects that compose the pattern.

Lesson 2 - What’s My Rule for Sorting?

Students build on prior knowledge of sorting and classifying when they recognize sorts and name rules for sorting. They identify common properties in the classroom environment and make, explain, and defend conjectures to extend their knowledge.

Lesson 3 - Making a Record of Pattern Cores

This lesson focuses on elements that constitute a pattern core or unit. Identifying the core element or unit that is repeated is a necessary early concept that students must understand to recognize and create repeating patterns.

Lesson 4 - Many Ways to Create Patterns

This lesson accommodates multiple learning styles by having students create patterns using different forms. Students use knowledge and skills in new situations to develop a solid understanding of the process for creating patterns, recognizing pattern sequences, and representing patterns in different ways.

Lesson 5 - Connecting Numbers and Patterns

This lesson accommodates multiple learning styles by having students create patterns using different forms. Students use knowledge and skills in new situations to develop a solid understanding of the process for creating patterns, recognizing pattern sequences, and representing patterns in different ways, and connecting numbers with patterns.

Lesson 6 - Sing and Show Patterns

This lesson accommodates multiple learning styles by engaging students in creating patterns with movement and translating the patterns into other forms.

Lesson 7 - Calculating Patterns

Students use an Internet-based calculator that is linked with an interactive hundred chart to create, extend, and record numerical patterns in different ways. By connecting the two representations, students observe the numerical patterns as they are created.

Lesson 8 - Looking Back and Moving Forward

This lesson assesses students' understanding of patterns. It measures their ability to create, extend, and interpret patterns in multiple ways.

NCTM Resources

Navigating through Algebra in preK‑2

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Thinkfinity Verizon Foundation
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