Spot and explain number patterns
Each pattern your child explains is proof to them that math makes sense and follows rules they can understand. It helps in practical ways too: knowing that an even number times any number is even tells your child that an odd answer to 6 x 7 must be wrong. This habit of asking why a pattern works grows into the reasoning used in algebra and the rest of later math.
In this video, your child will learn to spot patterns in the times table.
The lesson stops at each question for your child's answer.
Three problems, each a little harder
Each problem is worked step by step. Your child will solve the last one before Bobby shows how.
Example 1
3, 6, 9, 12, ? What comes next?
Example 2
9, 18, 27, 36, ? What comes next?
Your child's turn
8, 16, 24, 32, ? What comes next?
The three key steps
- 1Find what each jump adds.
- 2Watch odd, even, ones digits.
- 3Add 10, take away the extra.
Mistakes to listen for
- Trusting a pattern after a few examples, such as deciding every multiple of 3 is odd after seeing 3, 9, and 15.
- Describing a pattern only by how the numbers look, saying "it goes up by 5" without explaining why.
- Losing their place in the grid or reading a row as a column, then describing a pattern that is not there.
The lesson shows every step, so your child sees why it works. Read our parent's guide to spotting patterns in times tables →
Is your child ready to practice what they've learned?
Bobby's Math Club offers unlimited practice for free.
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More 3rd grade Problem Solving, with questions your child answers along the way.
Questions parents ask
Does my child need an account to watch?
No. You can watch this on any device at any time. If your child would like to practice spotting patterns in times tables, and you'd like parent-friendly reports on your child's progress and growth, you can join Bobby's Math Club for unlimited free practice.
What happens when my child answers a question?
A right answer gets a cheer, and the lesson carries on. If your child isn't sure, they can tap "I don't know yet", and Bobby gives the answer and shows another example. Nothing is scored or stored.
Is this the same lesson that's on YouTube?
Yes. Here, the lesson stops at each question and waits for your child to answer. On YouTube, each question stays on screen for a few seconds, and then the lesson plays on.
Where can I learn more?
There's a short, kid-friendly lesson like this one for every Pre-K to 5th grade math skill, all in our video library. Our parent's guide to spotting patterns in times tables has more on where kids get stuck and how you can help at home. In the club, your child practices at just the right level, about five minutes a day, and you get parent-friendly reports as they grow. Learn more about how it works →
Practice spotting patterns in times tables
Questions at your child's level, about five minutes a day, on spotting patterns in times tables and whatever PK-5 skills they need to develop. Unlimited practice, free forever.
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