algebra · Foundation · AC9MFA01
Repeating patterns
A repeating pattern uses the same group of shapes again and again. First find the part that repeats: say the pattern aloud and listen for where it starts again. Then keep the repeat going. If a shape is missing, read from the start and see what the repeat needs in the gap. To find a shape far along, count in whole repeats first, then count on.
Sample questions
What shape comes next in the pattern?
- The part that repeats is: yellow triangle, green diamond.
- The last shape shown is a green diamond, which is shape 2 of the repeat.
- A new repeat starts, so the next shape is a yellow triangle.
Answer: yellow triangle
What shape comes next in the pattern?
- The part that repeats is: red circle, yellow triangle.
- The last shape shown is a red circle, which is shape 1 of the repeat.
- The next shape is shape 2 of the repeat: a yellow triangle.
Answer: yellow triangle
What shape comes next in the pattern?
- The part that repeats is: purple star, red circle.
- The last shape shown is a red circle, which is shape 2 of the repeat.
- A new repeat starts, so the next shape is a purple star.
Answer: purple star