Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 1

Lesson Video

This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.

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Performance objectives

• Copy and extend simple number patterns.
• Find the rule for a number pattern.
• Find missing numbers in a pattern.
• Create your own number patterns.

Lesson summary

This lesson introduces Grade 1 learners to the exciting world of number patterns. A number pattern is a sequence of numbers that follows a specific rule. Understanding patterns is a fundamental mathematical skill that helps with counting, problem-solving, and even later concepts like algebra. In the South African context, patterns are all around us – in the beautiful geometric designs of Ndebele houses, the rhythmic songs we sing, and the repeating patterns in traditional beadwork. By learning to spot, continue, and create their own number patterns, learners develop their logical thinking and ability to make predictions.

Lesson notes

What is a Number Pattern? A number pattern is like a secret code made of numbers. The numbers are not just random; they follow a special order or a rule. Our job as Maths detectives is to figure out that rule!

Example: Look at these numbers: 2, 4, 6, 8 Are they just mixed up? No! They are following a rule. To get from one number to the next, we are counting on by

2. This is a 'counting in 2s' pattern. Finding the Rule The rule tells us what to do to get the next number in the pattern. To find the rule, we look at how the numbers change. Are the numbers getting bigger? This means we are adding or counting forwards. Are the numbers getting smaller? This means we are subtracting or counting backwards. Let's be detectives!