Patterns & Variables

We use addition, multiplication, subtraction and division skills to find pattern rules. After identifying patterns, we can use variables to write out expressions and solve problems.

Terminology

• Pattern: Things arranged following a rule or rules.

• Term: A single number or variable.

• Variable: A symbol for a value we don't know yet. It is usually a letter like x or y.

• Equation: An equation says that two things are equal. It will have an equals sign "=" like this: 7 + 2 = 10 − 1

• Expression: Numbers, symbols and operators (such as + and ×) grouped together that show the value of something. Example: 2 + 3

• Sequence: A list of numbers or objects in a special order. Example: 3, 5, 7, 9

• Set: A collection of "things" (objects or numbers, etc)

Outcomes

General Outcome: Use patterns to describe the world and to solve problems.

1. Determine the pattern rule to make predictions about subsequent elements.

General Outcome: Represent algebraic expressions in multiple ways.

2. Express a given problem as an equation in which a letter variable is used to represent an unknown number (limited to whole numbers).

3. Solve problems involving single-variable, one-step equations with whole number coefficients and whole number solutions.

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