Patterns

NCTM Algebra Standard: Grades 3-5

Understand Patterns, Relations, and Functions
• describe, extend, and make generalizations about geometric and numeric patterns;
• represent and analyze patterns and functions, using words, tables, and graphs.

Analyze change in various contexts
investigate how a change in one variable relates to a change in a second variable;
• identify and describe situations with constant or varying rates of change and compare them.

Step 1

Check out these animations and find out about repeating patterns, multiplicative patterns, and growing patterns.

Step 2

View this video to learn about a function machine.

Ready to try out an exploration about patterns? Determine the rule for each of the functions using this Function Machine. Good luck!

Step 3
	Use the drawing and table tools in a word processing or graphics program to Create Your Own Patterns.

Visit these Websites to understand patterns.

	Whole Number Cruncher Input numbers into the whole number function machine. Can you figure out the rule?
	National Library of Virtual Manipulatives Identify the pattern and complete the train.
	National Library of Virtual Manipulatives Complete the number pattern after observing the initial numbers in the sequence.
	Function Machine Click on the picture. Enter a number. Can you guess the function?
	Interactive Number Grid Click on the picture. Create a grid, make a test, and fill in the missing numbers.
	Extension: Pascal's Triangle Color the remainders in Pascal's Triangle.