math · pre-k
What Comes Next
Recognize and extend repeating patterns.
Find this activity in the mathematics map
Explore the related learning targets, foundations and possible next connections.
Learning goals
- Recognize and extend repeating patterns.
Before you begin
Distinguish two objects or actions.
Age and grade do not measure readiness. Adjust reading or adult support to preserve the intended learning goal.
Follow the sequence
Complete practice
Practice previewWhat Comes Next
Practice · Adult guidance · 25 min
Recognize and extend repeating patterns. A complete set with exploration, practice and application. Use the linked unit for the learning sequence and teaching guide.
1. Explore
Practice previewWhat Comes Next: Explore and Explain
Explore · Adult guidance · 10 min
Recognize and extend repeating patterns. A focused learn activity. Use the linked unit for the learning sequence and teaching guide.
2. Practice
Practice previewWhat Comes Next: Practice Independently
Practice · Adult guidance · 10 min
Recognize and extend repeating patterns. A focused practice activity. Use the linked unit for the learning sequence and teaching guide.
3. Apply
Practice previewWhat Comes Next: Apply and Create
Apply · Adult guidance · 15 min
Recognize and extend repeating patterns. A focused apply activity. Use the linked unit for the learning sequence and teaching guide.
Download the unit pack
Numbered activities, separate answer keys and a teaching guide in one ZIP. The pack uses the focused sequence; the complete practice sheet above is an alternative.
Teaching and response guide
- Begin with: What comes next: apple, star, apple, star, ___?
- Connect the response to: What repeats in: clap, tap, clap, tap?
- Ask students to apply the idea: Draw your own repeating pattern. Repeat its small group three times.
Watch for: Guessing the next object without finding the repeating unit.
Check the answer criteria for each task. A supported explanation may have more than one acceptable response. These activities offer evidence to discuss; completing a sheet alone does not establish mastery.