Math talk

In Math, we are learning about patterns. Here are things you can do at home to help.

Listening for Patterns

•  Clap your hands and stomp one foot in a sequence (such as clap, clap, stomp;  clap, clap, stomp; clap, clap, stomp). Have your child repeat the same sequence.  Then together create variations of the pattern. •  Have fun teaching your child simple dances that include a sequence of steps  and movements.

Patterns at Home or in the Neighbourhood

•  Your child will find patterns in clothing, in wallpaper, in tiles, on toys and among trees and flowers. Encourage your child to describe the patterns found. Have your child try to identify the features of the pattern that repeat. •  With your child, try searching for images on the Internet by using such keywords as “patterns around us.”

Charts, tables and graphs are some ways to highlight patterns.

•  Lay a row of nine spoons so that each handle points up or down in a pattern with a core of up, up, down (up, up, down; up, up, down; up, up, down).  Ask your child to extend the pattern.

•  Make this task more challenging and ask your child to describe and say the  patterns aloud:      

•  Make the pattern core longer – for example, up, up, down, up; up, up, down, up;  up, up, down, up.  

    •  Change one of the elements in the pattern core – for example, up, up, down, sideways; up, up, down, sideways; up, up, down, sideways.

•  Explore growing patterns with your child by using toothpicks or straws.  Ask your child to keep the pattern growing.  What comes next?

Source: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/literacynumeracy/parentGuideNum.html