Extending Table Patterns
Recognise and use repeated reasoning to generalise: extend multiplication table patterns, derive unknown facts from known ones, and describe rules for sequences
What a learner can do afterwards
- Notice that all multiples of 4 are even and use this to check answers
- Derive 8 × 7 from 8 × 5 + 8 × 2 by spotting the pattern
- Describe a rule for a growing pattern (e.g. 'add 50 each time') and use it to predict the next terms
The lesson
You already know lots of multiplication facts. You can stretch what you know to find new facts, without starting all over. Look for a pattern, then use it.
To find 8 × 7, split 7 into 5 + 2. You know 8 × 5 = 40 and 8 × 2 = 16. Add them together: 40 + 16 = 56. So 8 × 7 = 56.
Here's a quick check: every multiple of 4 is even. If your answer to a × 4 fact comes out odd, go back and try again.
Break a new fact into ones you already know and add them, and for patterns, find what's added each time to predict what comes next.
Watch it
Where it sits
This opens up
Where this leads
Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.
8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.