Number patterns and flow diagrams
Find the rule behind a pattern, predict what comes next and use a flow diagram. Read one step, play with it, then tap “I understand this”.
A pattern has a rule
In 3, 7, 11, 15 … 4 is added each time. The rule is: start at 3 and add 4 each time.
Build a pattern
Choose the kind of jump, the start and the jump.
Find the rule: subtract each number from the next one. If the difference is the same every time, it is a plus pattern.
The difference shows how much was added each time. If it is the same every time, you know the rule and can carry on without guessing.
What comes next?
Guess the next number
Look at the jumps and choose the next number.
Correct: 0Flow diagrams: input and output
A flow diagram is a machine: a number goes in (input), the machine does the rule, and a new number comes out (output).
The number machine
Choose a rule and change the input.
Find the rule
If you only see the input and output, test each possible rule on all the numbers. The right rule works for every one.
Which rule?
Choose the rule that fits the table.
Correct: 0Geometric patterns
Patterns can be pictures too. How many matchsticks do you need for a row of squares?
Matchstick squares
Change how many squares. Look for the rule.
Do not just say 4 × squares: the squares share a side. Draw the first few and count.
Check yourself
- Find the difference between the numbers: the same every time? Then that is the rule.
- A flow diagram: input → rule → output.
- Test a rule on all the numbers, not just one.
- In matchstick patterns the shapes share sides: draw and count.
Write these points in your maths book. Read them again the night before the test.
Quick questions
Tap an answer. If you get one wrong, read why and go back to that step. You get new questions every time.
You ticked all 5 steps! Now you are ready for the quiz.- Practice sheet for this classQuestions + memo · 2 A4 pagesPractice sheet
- Patterns6 pages · PDFPaperMemo
Ready for more? The Grade 4 patterns quiz gives you new patterns every time.
- One step a day is enough. Ten calm minutes work better than an hour the night before the test.
- Look for patterns on the way to school: house numbers on one side of the street (2, 4, 6 …) are a plus-2 pattern.
- Ask your child to tell you the rule in their own words. If they can explain it, they understand it.
- The ticks (“I understand this”) are saved on this device only. We never ask for names or emails.
Follows CAPS for Grade 4 Maths. Always check your teacher’s notes and textbook too.