Complete Growing Shape Patterns

Understanding growing shape patterns

In a growing shape pattern, each new picture is built by adding the same kind of change each time. The key idea is to notice how many parts are added from one step to the next and then use that rule to complete the missing pattern or find the final simplified result.

Method

1. Look at the first few shapes carefully. Count the number of tiles, dots, sides, or repeated units in each one.
2. Find the growth rule. Ask: does the pattern add 1 each time, 2 each time, or something else?
3. Extend the pattern. Use the same growth to draw or determine the next shape.
4. Simplify the answer. If the task gives a numerical expression or total, combine the parts into the simplest form.

Helpful check

Compare your completed shape with the earlier ones. The change from one step to the next should stay consistent. If the numbers are involved, verify that your final count matches the rule you found.

Example thinking

If the shapes increase by 3 pieces each step, then the next shape must also add 3 more pieces. Keep the structure of the previous shape and add only the new parts required by the pattern.