Patterns and Algebra
Year 6 students explore number patterns, function rules, and the foundations of algebra by describing and extending sequences using words and symbols.
What You Need to Know
Key Concept Diagram
A pattern rule describes how each term in a sequence is generated from the previous one
Variables (letters) can stand in for unknown or changing values in a rule
Linear patterns increase or decrease by a constant amount each step
Representing patterns in a table of values helps spot the rule quickly
Key Vocabulary
Pattern rule
A description or formula that tells you how to get from one term to the next
Variable
A letter or symbol that represents an unknown or changing number
Sequence
An ordered list of numbers that follows a rule
Term
Each number or element in a sequence
Knowledge Check
Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.
Question 1
What is the next term in the pattern 3, 7, 11, 15, …?
Question 2
A pattern starts at 2 and the rule is "multiply by 3". What is the 4th term?
Question 3
Which rule describes the table: Input 1→5, 2→8, 3→11, 4→14?
Key Concepts Summary
- ●A pattern rule describes how each term in a sequence is generated from the previous one
- ●Variables (letters) can stand in for unknown or changing values in a rule
- ●Linear patterns increase or decrease by a constant amount each step
- ●Representing patterns in a table of values helps spot the rule quickly