Look, then try.
Two pieces can make a repeat, and so can three. Draw your repeating part in the first space, then use it again and again to fill the whole pattern. Give your rule a name or say it in words so someone else could follow it. When you finish, ask somebody to continue your pattern while you check their answer against your rule. There are no wrong pieces here: a rule made of sounds, stickers or crayon colours works just as well.
An adult helps with cutting the pattern cards. Keep paper scraps away from younger children. Move gently during movement patterns: seated movements work too, and no jumping is needed.
Use a finger, stylus or mouse in each drawing box. Type below it, or ask a grown-up to write your words. Your work stays in this tab. Save before refreshing or leaving.
My repeating part
Draw the small part that will repeat. Keep it simple enough to remember.
My whole pattern
Draw your whole row using the repeating part again and again.
Your ideas belong here. There is no score.
What are we learning?
Creating a rule and testing whether someone else can follow it is the heart of algebraic thinking. Explaining why the next piece fits proves the rule is real.
Prefer a worksheet?
Open the individual cartoon activity sheet to print or save. Use portrait orientation and fit to page.
Open worksheet to save ↓Try another pattern activity.
How to Make a PatternChoose two pieces, lay down your repeat and keep it going.
Draw · Type · Save
My Pattern PiecesSort your shape cards, build long rows and swap patterns to solve.
Draw · Type · Save
Finish My PatternFind the rule in each row, then draw the piece that comes next.
Draw · Type · Save
Move in a PatternTurn a pattern into gentle moves: clap, tap, reach.
Draw · Type · Save