Ability to predict

One of the most powerful aspects of mathematics is the ability to predict. Prediction usually involves reasoning.

Long before students meet the idea of algebraic patterns and formulae, or series and sequences, they can learn to predict. Work with patterning and predicting in Number and Algebra is vital, but prediction can also be expected in Geometry and Measurement, as well as Statistics and Probability.

The Paper Folding activity, for example, allows teachers to assess students' abilities to predict, at various year levels.

Line of symmetry activities allow students to make predictions then receive immediate feedback.

Paper folding

This paper folding activity allows assessment of students' abilities to describe predictions, at many year levels and from simple to complex examples.

Symmetry resources

Symmetry activities can give students immediate feedback on their abilities to predict.

Folding online shapes

This digital symmetry activity gives students immediate feedback on their abilities to predict.

Curriculum links

Year 1: Investigate and describe number patterns formed by skip counting and patterns with objects

Year 3: Describe, continue and create number patterns resulting from performing addition or subtraction

Year 5: Describe, continue and create patterns with fractions, decimals and whole numbers resulting from addition and subtraction

Year 6: Continue and create sequences involving whole numbers, fractions and decimals. Describe the rule used to create the sequence

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