Grade 3 Mathematics Numbers – Number Patterns Notes
Mathematics — Numbers
Subtopic: Number Patterns (Age 8 — Kenyan Primary)
A number pattern is a list of numbers that follows a rule. We use patterns when we count, work with money, or sort items. Here you will learn to find the rule, continue patterns and make your own.
1. Simple patterns (skip counting)
Look at these sequences and say the rule (how the numbers change):
- 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, ... — rule: add 2 (count by 2s).
- 5, 10, 15, 20, ... — rule: add 5 (count by 5s). You often use this when counting 5-shilling coins.
- 10, 9, 8, 7, ... — rule: subtract 1 (count backwards).
2. Odd and even patterns
Odd numbers: 1, 3, 5, 7, ... (add 2). Even numbers: 2, 4, 6, 8, ... (add 2).
3. Repeating patterns with shapes
A pattern can repeat. Look and say what comes next:
Pattern: red circle, blue square, red circle, ...
4. Number line visual
Use a number line to see patterns:
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Example: Jump by 2 (0 → 2 → 4 → 6 ...)
5. How to find the rule
- Look at how each number changes to the next (add, subtract, multiply).
- Check two or three steps to be sure the same change happens each time.
- Write the rule (for example: +3, −1, ×2).
6. Practice problems
Try these. Click "Show answers" to check.
- Fill the missing numbers:
3, __, 7, __, 11, ...
- Find the next two numbers:
8, 12, 16, ...
- What is the rule?
20, 18, 16, 14, ...
- Shape pattern (write the next two shapes):
- Create your own number pattern. Write 6 numbers and tell the rule.
Show answers
- 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, ... (rule: +2)
- 8, 12, 16, 20, 24 (next two: 20 and 24) — rule: +4
- 20, 18, 16, 14, 12, ... (rule: −2)
- Next two shapes: yellow square, green circle (pattern repeats square, circle)
- Example answer: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 (rule: +2). Students can make many other patterns.
7. Tips for learning
- Use real things: beads, pencils or coins to make patterns.
- Draw a number line when you are not sure.
- Check each step to be sure the rule is the same every time.
Good work! Practice a little every day with numbers around you — on the matatu, at the market, or in class.