Question 1
Patterns & Problem-Solving
Patterning is ordering according to a specific pattern/rule. We find patterns everywhere in everyday life,
for example in nature, in/on buildings, on dress material, in the pattern of laying a table, in art and in
music. 1.1 In light of the above statement, discuss the importance of patterns and how it contributes to
problem-solving. You should include the following in your discussions. • First identify different types of
patterns using examples and explain the rules used in these patterns (You may consider patterns in
sound/rhythm, movement, concrete objects, colour, shape and size.) • Discuss how these patterns
contribute to an understanding of counting and mathematical concepts. (10) 1.2 List, with examples, the
different modes that teachers can use to teach patterns to Grade R learners. (10)
1.1 Importance of Patterns in Problem-Solving:
Patterns play a significant role in problem-solving as they provide a framework for
understanding and organizing information. They enable us to identify regularities, make
predictions, and establish connections between different elements. Here are different types of
patterns and their rules in various domains:
a) Sound/Rhythm Patterns: In music, patterns can be observed in melodies, rhythms, and
harmonies. For example, a simple pattern in rhythm could be a regular alternation of strong and
weak beats in a musical piece.
b) Movement Patterns: In dance and sports, patterns can be seen in choreography or sequences of
movements. Dance routines often involve repeating patterns of steps or gestures, which
contribute to the overall structure and aesthetics.
c) Concrete Object Patterns: Patterns can be found in the arrangement or design of physical
objects. For instance, tiles on a floor may follow a repetitive pattern of shapes or colors, and
wallpaper may have a recurring motif.
d) Color Patterns: Colors can be arranged in patterns, such as a rainbow with a predictable
sequence of colors or a checkerboard pattern with alternating colors.
e) Shape Patterns: Shapes can form patterns through repetition or symmetry. Examples include
tessellations, where a specific shape is 8repeated to fill a plane without any gaps or overlaps.
f) Size Patterns: Patterns can also be based on the size or magnitude of objects. For instance, in a
sequence of objects, the sizes may follow a specific rule like increasing or decreasing in a regular
pattern.
, Understanding patterns contributes to counting and mathematical concepts in the following
ways:
i. Counting: Patterns assist in developing counting skills by providing a structure for organizing
and tracking numbers. For instance, a pattern of counting by twos (2, 4, 6, 8, ...) helps children
grasp the concept of skip counting.
ii. Number Sequences: Patterns allow children to recognize and extend number sequences. By
observing patterns in a sequence, they can predict and identify missing numbers. For example, in
the sequence 2, 4, 6, _, 10, the pattern is adding 2 to each number.
iii. Mathematical Operations: Patterns facilitate understanding of mathematical operations like
addition and subtraction. For instance, recognizing a pattern of increasing by 5 in a series (5, 10,
15, ...) helps in solving addition problems involving multiples of 5.
1.2 Modes for Teaching Patterns to Grade R Learners:
i. Visual Patterns: Teachers can use visual aids like flashcards, pictures, or charts to introduce
and reinforce patterns. They can ask students to identify and complete visual patterns by
identifying the missing elements.
Example: Provide a sequence of pictures where each picture adds a new feature (e.g., a snowman
with additional accessories). Students observe the pattern and predict what the next picture will
look like.
ii. Movement Patterns: Engaging students in physical activities involving movement patterns can
enhance their understanding. Teachers can ask students to mimic or create movement patterns
with their bodies.
Example: Create a sequence of dance movements (e.g., jump, spin, clap) and ask students to
replicate the pattern in the given order.
iii. Manipulative Patterns: Teachers can provide manipulatives like blocks, beads, or pattern
blocks for students to explore and create patterns. Students can arrange the manipulatives in
various ways based on a given pattern.
Example: Provide pattern blocks of different shapes and colors and ask students to create a
repeating pattern using the blocks.
iv. Sound/Rhythm Patterns: Using musical instruments or clapping hands, teachers can teach
rhythm patterns by encouraging students to listen and reproduce a given sequence of beats.
Example: Teacher claps a rhythm, and students repeat the pattern by clapping their hands in the
same sequence.