L4 · Patterns in addition and subtraction tables

Learning goal

“I can find a pattern in an addition or subtraction table and use it to find the next fact.”

Pattern — something that changes (or stays) in the same way, again and again.

Table — facts lined up in rows and columns so we can see a pattern.

Row — a line of facts going across. A column goes down.

Worked example

Read this column of the table: 3 + 1 = 4, 3 + 2 = 5, 3 + 3 = 6. Watch three things: the first number stays 3. The second number grows by 1 each time: 1, 2, 3. The sum grows by 1 each time: 4, 5, 6. So the next fact is 3 + 4 = 7 - the sum grows by 1 again.

Check yourself — explain it

Why does the sum grow by 1 each time?

Paired problem — example still visible

5 + 1 = 6, 5 + 2 = 7, 5 + 3 = 8. What is 5 + 4? -> 9 (the sum grows by 1: 6, 7, 8, 9)

Faded completion — last step is yours

"4 + 2 = 6, 4 + 3 = 7, 4 + 4 = 8. Use the pattern: 4 + 5 = ___" -> 9

Ready to practise?

8 scored questions with a 3-rung hint ladder. Mastery needs 7/8 plus both gate questions.

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