When we have a set of numbers, we can look for a pattern, and use that to continue the pattern. How do we know what to look for? Well, the first step is to compare two numbers that are next to each other, and look at how they've changed.

Just like working with patterns in addition, sometimes there is more than one way in which they've changed, so you may need to check a few numbers to see which of your ideas is correct.

We may also have a problem where we are asked to describe what pattern we can see, in a set of numbers such as this: $5$5, $10$10, $20$20, $40$40. Having a list of patterns to choose from means we can check the numbers to see which one is correct.

Let's see both of these examples in the video.

Remember!

When we want to check a pattern, we need to check two numbers that are next to each other first.

Worked Examples

Question 1

Complete the following pattern.

$2$2 $4$4 $8$8 $\editable{}$ $\editable{}$

Question 2

Complete the following pattern.

$\editable{}$ $40$40 $400$400 $4000$4000 $\editable{}$

Question 3

Choose the pattern that follows the rule.

Start at $10$10 and multiply by $2$2 each time.
$10,20,30,40$10,20,30,40
A
$2,12,22,32$2,12,22,32
B
$10,20,40,80$10,20,40,80
C
$10,12,14,16$10,12,14,16
D

Outcomes

NA3-8

Connect members of sequential patterns with their ordinal position and use tables, graphs, and diagrams to find relationships between successive elements of number and spatial patterns.

Create and continue number patterns (mult)

Looking for patterns