If you saw a list of numbers like $7$7, $10$10, $13$13, $16$16, $19$19, you might notice that there is a pattern to the numbers. To get from each number to the next, you need to add $3$3. We say that the numbers are increasing by $3$3, or that you are adding $3$3 each time.

This is what we call a description of a pattern. Watch the video below to learn more about describing patterns!

Now that we've learnt how to describe a pattern, try some questions yourself!

Worked Examples

Example 1

Describe the number pattern below.

Which of the options below best describes the pattern?

$4$4 $6$6 $8$8 $10$10 $12$12

The numbers are decreasing by $3$3 units.
A
The numbers are decreasing by $2$2 units.
B
The numbers are increasing by $2$2 units.
C
The numbers are increasing by $1$1 units.
D

Example 2

Complete the pattern:

$12$12, $26$26, $40$40, $\editable{}$, $\editable{}$, $\editable{}$
What is the rule for finding the missing values?
Add $28$28.
A
Add $14$14.
B
Add $15$15.
C
Add $13$13.
D

Example 3

Write the next numbers in the pattern about the number of matches used to make the pattern.

$6$6, $\editable{}$, $\editable{}$, $\editable{}$, $\editable{}$, $\editable{}$
Which of the following best describes the pattern above?
The numbers are decreasing by $5$5.
A
The numbers are increasing by $4$4.
B
The numbers are increasing by $5$5.
C
The numbers are increasing by $3$3.
D

Outcomes

3.N.AS.3

Solves addition and subtraction problems in different situations presented through pictures and stories.

3.P.P.3

Identifies patterns in the numerals for odd and even numbers and in adding odd and even numbers.

3.P.P.6

Identifies patterns in multiplication with, and dividing by 10s. (also addition, subtraction)

Describe a pattern (add/sub)