K-5 friendly lesson

One small step at a time.Read the idea, try the activity, and celebrate each win as you go.

Use a rule to complete a number pattern

Patterns are number stories. Find the rule, then keep the story going.

Do this: Read the concept below, then try the quiz or activity.

Lesson 56 of 202

Concept

Every pattern has a rule.

🧩 Types of rules: - Add the same number each time (+4, +50, +0.3) - Subtract the same number each time - Multiply by the same factor (×2, ×3) - Alternate operations (+5, -2, +5, -2)

Example A: 12, 17, 22, 27, __, __ Rule is +5 → next terms: 32, 37

Example B: 1, 3, 9, 27, __ Rule is ×3 → next term: 81

🧠 Check your rule on at least 3 jumps before finalizing.

Try it

Find the rule and complete.

1. 240, 340, 440, 540, __, __ 2. 95, 90, 85, 80, __, __ 3. 4, 8, 16, 32, __ 4. 200, 205, 203, 208, 206, __, __

Create your own: 5. Write a pattern with rule +25 for six terms. 6. Write a pattern with rule ×2 for five terms.

Challenge: 7. Give two different rules that start with 5 and include 20 as a later term.

Complete & Continue →