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Create repeating patterns

A repeating pattern is a sequence built from a fixed unit, or core, that recurs in the same order, such as red-blue-blue or circle-square-triangle. The learner can represent, extend, and generate simple repeating patterns with objects, shapes, colors, sounds, or small numbers, identify the repeating unit, and distinguish repetition from a pattern that changes or grows; more general rules and complex numerical patterns are beyond this level.

Detailed Explanation: Create repeating patterns

A repeating pattern uses the same group of objects again and again. The group that repeats is called the core.

Example

Look at the pattern:

šŸ”“ šŸ”µ šŸ”µ šŸ”“ šŸ”µ šŸ”µ ___ ___ ___

Step 1: Find the smallest group that repeats.

Start at the beginning:

šŸ”“ šŸ”µ šŸ”µ

Now look at the next objects:

šŸ”“ šŸ”µ šŸ”µ

The core is:

šŸ”“ šŸ”µ šŸ”µ

Step 2: Repeat the core in the same order.

After šŸ”“ šŸ”µ šŸ”µ, write šŸ”“ šŸ”µ šŸ”µ again.

Step 3: Fill in the missing objects.

The completed pattern is:

šŸ”“ šŸ”µ šŸ”µ šŸ”“ šŸ”µ šŸ”µ šŸ”“ šŸ”µ šŸ”µ

So, the missing objects are red, blue, blue.

Remember: In a repeating pattern, the same core comes back in the same order.

Learn by doing: Create repeating patterns

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    Patterning - Next in 2 Item Repeating Shape Pattern

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