The note
How schools teach it now
Sequences are taught in KS2 maths: counting in steps, then finding the term-to-term rule. Use the same method: write the gap between each pair of numbers underneath. If the gaps aren't the same, look at how the gaps change.
5-minute kitchen-table activity
Use coins or pasta pieces to build a growing pattern: 2, then 3, then 5, then 8. Ask your child how many come next and why. Then let them build a pattern for you to crack, such as doubling or adding 3 each time.
Worked example
Find the next number: 2, 3, 5, 8, 12, ?
- Write the gaps: +1, +2, +3, +4.
- Each gap is one more than the last, so the next gap is +5.
- 12 + 5 = 17.
Answer: 17
Common mistakes to watch for
- Looking only at the last two numbers.
- Missing two series woven together (every other number).
- Small adding or times-table slips after finding the rule.
Encouragement
- Try saying
- “Write the gaps underneath. That's exactly how to spot the rule.”
- Rather than
- “You're good at maths, this should be easy.”