---
title: "Generalising Patterns"
description: "Recognise and use repeated reasoning to generalise: spot calculation patterns, describe rules for sequences, and predict results using known mathematical facts"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/generalising-patterns-mt_fZTn0W_iZR
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/generalising-patterns-mt_fZTn0W_iZR.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# Generalising Patterns

Recognise and use repeated reasoning to generalise: spot calculation patterns, describe rules for sequences, and predict results using known mathematical facts

Subject: Mathematics · Area: Mathematical Thinking · Ages 6 to 7
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/generalising-patterns-mt_fZTn0W_iZR

## Ready when they can

- Use a known doubles fact to derive a near-doubles answer (e.g. 6 + 7 = 6 + 6 + 1 = 13)
- Notice that subtracting 10 from any two-digit number always reduces the tens digit by 1
- Describe a rule for a pattern and use it to extend or predict (e.g. 'starting at 5, each time we add 5, the ones digit alternates between 0 and 5')

## Lesson: Spot the Pattern, Use the Rule

Sometimes a new problem is a fact you know with one change. If 6 + 6 = 12, then 6 + 7 is one more: 13. Patterns follow steady rules. In 2, 4, 6, 8, add 2 each time. In 3, 6, 9, add 3 each time. Say the rule and use it again. When adding, start at the larger number and count on the smaller part.

**Example.** Leo knows 6 + 6 = 12. He needs 6 + 7. That is just one more than 6 + 6, so 6 + 7 = 6 + 6 + 1 = 13.

*(drawing: Each number is 5 more than the last. What do you think comes after 25?)*

**Example.** Zara takes 10 away from 34. The ones digit, 4, does not change. The tens digit drops from 3 to 2, so 34 minus 10 is 24. This works for any two-digit number.

**Tip.** To find a rule, check what changes as you move to the next number. Say the rule in words, such as "add 5 each time." Then use it to guess what comes next.

**Recap.** Find what changes each time. Say the rule, then use it to predict the next answer.

## Practice

18 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [10 More or 10 Less](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/10-more-or-10-less-mt_kw7xmp68rU)
- [Addition and subtraction within 20](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/addition-and-subtraction-within-20-mt_m1W6nTQJ2b)
- [Finding efficient methods](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/finding-efficient-methods-mt_RFeVlw0QvX)

## Opens up

- [Extending Table Patterns](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/extending-table-patterns-mt_2jbUekyTu4)