Patterns at Home

In class we have been learning about repeating patterns, such as the following...

ABABABABAB

We have been describing, creating and extending patterns.  We have also been identifying the core of the pattern (the part of the pattern that repeats). In the example above, the core is composed of the A and B, and the core repeats 4 times.

Patterns can be created in a variety of ways. Using different objects (e.g. forks and spoons), different shapes (e.g. circles and squares), different colours (e.g. red and blue), or different sizes (e.g. large and small).

Explore some simple patterns with your child.  Create a simple repeating pattern, using two kinds of household objects.  Ask your child to read the pattern aloud by pointing to and naming each object in the pattern (e.g. "spoon, fork, spoon, fork, and so on).  Ask your child to explain what comes next in the pattern and have him or her extend the pattern using more of the two objects chosen.

Next have your child create a pattern (e.g. blue sock, blue sock, white sock, blue sock, blue sock, white sock, and so on). Ask your child to read the pattern aloud, and to extend tha pattern by adding a few more objects.

Have your child draw a picture of a pattern you explored together.  If the pattern involves colour, ask your child to colour the objects in the picture.  Have your child bring the drawing to school, so that it can be shared with the class.

Have fun exploring patterns!!!