What is a pattern?
A pattern is a sequence that repeats in a predictable way, and in early elementary math, students learn to notice how items repeat, describe the rule that explains the pattern, and use that rule to figure out what comes next.
AB pattern
An AB pattern is made by repeating two different items in the same order over and over again, which helps children focus on recognizing simple repetition and understanding that the order of items matters.
Example:
By working with AB patterns, students practice predicting what comes next and begin to explain their thinking using words like repeat, same, and again.
AAB pattern
An AAB pattern repeats a group of three items where two items are the same and the third item is different, which makes the pattern more challenging and encourages children to pay closer attention to how many times each part repeats.
Example:
As students work with AAB patterns, they strengthen their counting skills within a sequence and learn to look for groups instead of focusing on single items.
ABC pattern
An ABC pattern repeats three different items in the same order, requiring children to track longer sequences and remember more information as they work through the pattern.
Example:
These patterns support early algebraic thinking by helping students recognize structure and use that structure to predict future elements in the sequence.
Why learning patterns matters
Learning about patterns builds a strong foundation for later math skills because students are practicing logical thinking, learning to make predictions, and beginning to understand that math often follows rules that can be described and applied in many different situations.
Kindergarten pattern worksheets
In our kindergarten math section, we have sets of simple patterns worksheets for younger students.
Cut and paste patterns
Students identify patterns by cutting and pasting the correct objects in boxes.
Patterns of shapes
Students extend patterns of simple shapes in these worksheets.
Patterns of objects practice
Next, students are asked to draw an object to complete each pattern.
Patterns of letters worksheets
This final set of worksheets have students complete the patters of letters.
