Repeating patterns are an important mathematics concept that students need to understand from an early age. It is a fun and engaging way of developing children’s mathematical concepts and one that they can practice in various ways. The skills learned from repeating patterns can be applied to other areas of mathematics while providing a foundation for more advanced math concepts. Teaching students to complete a repeating pattern does not have to be a difficult task. There are many activities that educators can incorporate into their lesson plans to help the students understand the concept of repeating patterns.

Color and Shape Games

One of the most straightforward ways to demonstrate repeating patterns is to use colors and shapes. Start by selecting one color or shape and ask students to create a repeating pattern sequence. For example, red, blue, red, blue, red, blue. Once students have mastered this basic pattern, continue with more complex patterns. You can even involve the students and ask them to create their own patterns using more than one shape or color.

Patterning with Concrete Materials

Concrete materials such as blocks, beads, and collections of items can also be used to reinforce the concept of repeating patterns. In this activity, teachers can provide the students with a set of materials without patterns, and they can ask the children to create a sequence that repeats with those materials. As children continue to create their patterns, teachers can add more materials, making the activity even more challenging.

Movement Patterns

Movement patterns are another way to teach students about repeating patterns. This activity can involve the dance studio or the playground. The teacher can ask the students to perform a specific set of movements that repeat themselves. For example, a wave of hands or a sequence of hops in place. Teachers can encourage students to create their own repeating patterns of movements and share them with the class.

Pattern Jigsaw

Pattern jigsaws are an engaging way of teaching extension activities for students who already understand the repeating pattern concept. These activities consist of repeating designs that students can cut out and arrange to complete the pattern. The designs can be created using shapes, colors, or even numbers.

Conclusion

Repeating patterns are an essential concept in mathematics, and they are an important skill that students need to master. There are many activities that educators can incorporate into their lesson plans to help the students understand the concept of repeating patterns. Using color and shape games, patterning with concrete materials, movement patterns, and pattern jigsaw are all effective ways of teaching students to complete repeating patterns. With these activities, students will enhance their pattern identification, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.