enVision Mathematics Grade 4, Topic 13: Algebra: Generate and Analyze Patterns
In this unit, your child makes number and shape patterns that follow a rule, like "start at 3 and add 6," and looks for features the rule doesn't say, such as every number being odd. They also explain why those features happen. It follows the measurement unit and leads into lines, angles, and shapes.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Topic 13?
- Building number and shape patterns from a rule, and explaining features the rule doesn't state, like why the numbers stay odd. Learn more: Number patterns that follow a rule
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
A pattern starts at 1, and the rule is multiply by 3. Which of these numbers will be in the pattern?
- 21
- 81
- 13
How you can help
- Take turns on a walk or ride saying the next number in "start at 5, add 5": 5, 10, 15, 20, 25. Ask what your child notices about the last digits, and why.
- Build a growing pattern with blocks: 1, then 3, then 5. Ask your child to make the next one and predict how many the 10th would have without building it.
- Make up rules for each other at dinner. One person says "start at 4, add 6," the other lists numbers, and both look for something surprising, like every number being even.
Where kids can get stuck
- Confusing the starting number with the rule, so "start at 4, add 5" becomes 5, 9, 13.
- Adding the wrong amount partway through, writing 3, 9, 15, 20 instead of checking each step.
- Repeating the rule, "it adds 3," when asked to notice something else, like odd and even numbers.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- pattern
- Numbers or shapes that follow a rule.
- rule
- The instruction that tells how a pattern grows, like "add 6."
- term
- One number or shape in a pattern.
- feature
- Something true about a pattern that the rule doesn't say, like every number ending in 5.
- odd number
- A whole number that can't be split into two equal groups; it ends in 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9.
- even number
- A whole number that can be split into two equal groups; it ends in 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8.
Want to help your child master number patterns?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
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Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does enVision Mathematics Grade 4 Topic 13 cover?
enVision Mathematics Grade 4 Topic 13 covers this math standard. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
- 4.OA.C.5: Make a pattern from a rule, like adding 6 each time, and explain it.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.