Skill: Generate a pattern from a rule

Explanation and Free Practice Resources

A learner interprets a simple rule as a relationship that determines what comes next and generates a sequence of numbers or shapes by applying it consistently from a specified starting point. Rules may involve repeating a short pattern or adding or subtracting a small whole number within familiar counting ranges; the focus is on preserving order and structure, not on algebraic notation, negative or fractional values, or generalized formulas.

Detailed Explanation: Generate a pattern from a rule

A rule tells you what to do each time to find the next number. Start with the given number, follow the rule, and repeat it in the same order.

Example: Start at 22. Add 33 each time. Write the next four numbers.

  1. Start with 22.
  2. Add 33:
    (2+3=5)(2+3=5)
  3. Add 33 again:
    (5+3=8)(5+3=8)
  4. Add 33 again:
    (8+3=11)(8+3=11)
  5. Add 33 one more time:
    (11+3=14)(11+3=14)

The pattern is:

2, 5, 8, 11, 142,\ 5,\ 8,\ 11,\ 14

Check each pair: every number is 33 more than the number before it.

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