Number patterns: word problems

key notes :

Introduction to Number Patterns

Definition: A number pattern is a sequence of numbers that follows a specific rule.

Examples:

• Adding a constant (e.g., 2, 4, 6, 8, … → add 2).
• Multiplying by a constant (e.g., 1, 3, 9, 27, … → multiply by 3).
• Alternating operations (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20 → add 5).

Identifying the Pattern Rule

Observe the sequence: Look at how the numbers change.

Ask guiding questions:

• Are the numbers increasing or decreasing?
• Are they added, subtracted, multiplied, or divided?

Write the rule: Describe the relationship between consecutive terms.

Types of Number Patterns

• Arithmetic patterns: Adding or subtracting a fixed number (e.g., 3, 6, 9, 12).
• Geometric patterns: Multiplying or dividing by a fixed number (e.g., 2, 4, 8, 16).
• Mixed patterns: Combining operations (e.g., 2, 5, 10, 17 → add 3, then add 5).

Solving Word Problems

Understand the problem:

• Read the question carefully.
• Identify the pattern in the given data.

Set up the pattern rule:

• Write down the rule based on the given numbers.

Predict missing terms:

• Use the rule to find missing or future numbers in the sequence.

Check your answer:

• Verify that your solution fits the rule.

Strategies for Solving Number Pattern Problems

• Use tables to organize data.
• Look for repeated differences or ratios.
• Draw number lines or visual aids if needed.
• Use trial and error for complex patterns.

Examples of Word Problems

Simple Addition Rule:

• “A plant grows 3 cm each day. How tall will it be after 5 days if it starts at 10 cm?”
• Pattern: Start at 10, add 3 each day → 10, 13, 16, 19, 22.

Multiplication Rule:

• “A rabbit population doubles every year. If there are 2 rabbits now, how many will there be in 4 years?”
• Pattern: 2, 4, 8, 16 → Multiply by 2 each year.

Find the Missing Number:

• “What number completes this pattern? 50, 45, ___, 35.”
• Rule: Subtract 5 → Missing number = 40.

Learn with an example

Let’s practice!🖊️