Mathematics
Grade 6
15 min
Shape patterns (Tutorial Only)
Shape patterns (Tutorial Only)
Tutorial Preview
1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Identify and describe different types of shape patterns, including repeating and growing patterns.
Predict the next terms in a given shape pattern.
Determine the rule governing a simple shape pattern.
Create their own repeating and growing shape patterns.
Represent shape patterns using numbers or tables.
Explain the difference between repeating and growing shape patterns.
Solve problems involving shape patterns by applying identified rules.
Have you ever noticed how things repeat or grow in a predictable way? 🌳 Patterns are everywhere, from the tiles on your floor to the leaves on a tree!
In this lesson, we'll dive into the fascinating world of shape patterns. You'll learn how to spot them, figure out their secrets (their rules!), and even c...
2
Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
PatternA sequence of shapes, numbers, or objects that repeats or changes in a predictable way.Circle, Square, Circle, Square, ...
Repeating PatternA pattern where a specific sequence of shapes or elements occurs over and over again.Triangle, Star, Star, Triangle, Star, Star, ...
Growing PatternA pattern where the number of shapes or elements increases or decreases in a predictable way with each new term.1 square, then 3 squares, then 5 squares, ...
TermEach individual item or group of items in a pattern. Terms are usually numbered (1st term, 2nd term, etc.).In the pattern 'Circle, Square, Triangle, Circle, Square, Triangle', 'Circle' is the 1st term, 'Square' is the 2nd term, and 'Triangle' is the 3rd term.
Pattern RuleThe desc...
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Core Formulas
Rule for Identifying Repeating Patterns
Identify the smallest sequence of shapes that repeats exactly. This is the 'core unit'.
To understand and extend a repeating pattern, you must first find the repeating block of shapes. Once you know the core unit, you can easily predict any future term.
Rule for Identifying Growing Patterns
Determine the change in the number of shapes (or elements) from one term to the next. This change is often constant.
For growing patterns, look for how many shapes are added or removed between consecutive terms. This 'constant difference' helps you find the rule and predict future terms. If the change isn't constant, look for a pattern in the change itself.
Rule for Predicting the Nth Term (Simple Linear Growth)
If a g...
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Challenging
Pattern A starts with 10 shapes and adds 3 shapes each term. Pattern B starts with 4 shapes and adds 5 shapes each term. At which term number will both patterns have the same number of shapes?
A.Term 2
B.Term 3
C.Term 4
D.Term 5
Challenging
A special growing pattern is created as follows: Term 1 has 3 shapes. To get the next term, you add a number of shapes equal to the current term number. How many shapes will be in Term 5?
A.13
B.15
C.11
D.17
Challenging
A repeating pattern's core unit is 'Circle, Square, Square, Triangle, Square'. If a very long version of this pattern contains exactly 30 squares, what is the total number of shapes in the entire pattern?
A.50
B.45
C.60
D.30
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