A learner compares repeating patterns by identifying their smallest repeating unit and examining the attributes and order that recur, such as color, shape, size, or number. They determine whether two patterns have the same or different repeat structures, even when different objects are used, and use corresponding positions to explain similarities and differences. The focus is on simple finite patterns and their continuation, not on algebraic formulas, variables, or nonrepeating sequences.
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Detailed Explanation: Compare repeating patterns
To compare two patterns:
- Find the smallest group that repeats in each pattern.
- Look at the order of the items in each group.
- Check matching positions to see whether the patterns are built the same way.
Example: Are these patterns the same?
- Pattern A: 🔴 🔵 🔴 🔵 🔴 🔵
- Pattern B: ▲ ▲ ● ● ▲ ▲
Step 1: Find the repeating unit in Pattern A.
Pattern A repeats:
🔴 🔵 | 🔴 🔵 | 🔴 🔵
Its smallest repeating unit is red, blue.
Step 2: Find the repeating unit in Pattern B.
Pattern B repeats:
▲ ▲ ● ● | ▲ ▲ ● ●
Its smallest repeating unit is triangle, triangle, circle, circle.
Step 3: Compare the units.
Pattern A changes after every item:
🔴, 🔵, 🔴, 🔵
Pattern B keeps the same shape for two items before changing:
▲, ▲, ●, ●
The patterns are different. Pattern A has a repeat of 2 items, while Pattern B has a repeat of 4 items.
Learn by doing: Compare repeating patterns
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Practice:
Patterning - Rule for 2 Item Repeating Shape Pattern
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Download/Modify Free Grade 1 'Compare repeating patterns' Worksheet
Print this free 'Compare repeating patterns' worksheet to practice this skill away from the computer. Click 'Modify' to easily customize this worksheet to your exact needs.
This Worksheet Includes:
- Patterning - Rule for 2 Item Repeating Shape Pattern
- Patterning - Rule for 3 Item Repeating Shape Pattern
- Patterning - Rule for 4 Item Repeating Shape Pattern
- Patterning - Concept Intro - Type to Picture
- Patterning - Concept Intro - Picture to Type
- Patterning - Concept Intro (Repeating) - Picture to Term List
- Patterning - Next in 2 Item Repeating Shape Pattern
- Patterning - Missing from 2 Item Repeating Shape Pattern