Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 3

Lesson Video

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

For class groups and homework, share this lesson page so learners also get the summary, objectives, and full lesson context.

Performance objectives

• Identify and describe rules for geometric patterns.
• Copy and extend geometric patterns.
• Identify and describe rules for number patterns.
• Copy and extend number patterns.
• Create your own simple patterns.

Lesson summary

This lesson introduces Grade 3 learners to the exciting world of patterns. Patterns are all around us, from the beautiful designs on Ndebele houses and the colourful beads of a Zulu necklace, to the way we count our money and the rhythm of our favourite songs. Understanding patterns is a fundamental mathematical skill. It helps us to make predictions, understand rules, and solve problems. This week, we will explore two main types of patterns: geometric patterns (made with shapes) and number patterns (sequences). By learning to spot, continue, and create patterns, learners build a strong foundation for more advanced mathematical concepts like algebra.

Lesson notes

A. Geometric Patterns A geometric pattern is a sequence of shapes, colours, or objects that repeats in a predictable and orderly way. The part of the pattern that repeats over and over is called the core or the repeating unit.

How to work with geometric patterns: Look closely at the pattern to see what shapes, colours, or sizes are used. Find the core. This is the smallest part that repeats. Say the pattern out loud to help you find it. Use the core to predict what comes next and extend the pattern.