Patterning is an important foundational skill for mathematical and algebraic thinking (see the links to student work in the upper grades). Kindergarten students make patterns using the Kidspiration Program. In the above example, the student uses shapes to make a simple pattern: square, rectangle, square, hexagon. The student must also show that the unit of the pattern (square, rectangle, square, hexagon) repeats. The student then transfers the pattern with the shapes to letters: A, B, A, C. Finally, the student transfers the pattern to one with Kindergarten teachers. Transferring the pattern shows that the student can generalize a pattern, and then show it in a different form.
This example is more advanced and includes many more elements in the unit (orange, pink, orange, blue, green, blue; or a,b,a,c,d,c). Although this pattern matches the first grade indicator more, Kindergartners should be encouraged to make more and more sophisticated patterns.
Indicators:
1.K.1.2 identify, describe, copy,
extend, and construct simple
patterns using concrete objects.
1.1.1.1 recognize, describe, extend,
and create repeating patterns using
models.
1.1.1.2 copy, continue, and record
patterns with actions, words, and
objects; translate a pattern into
another form.
