Continuing Patterns Games That Build Algebraic Thinking

Understanding continuing patterns is a key foundation for developing algebraic thinking in the primary years. Through patterns, students begin to recognise relationships between numbers, predict what comes next and explain the rules that govern number sequences. Concepts such as doubling, halving and following algorithms help students move from simple pattern recognition into deeper mathematical reasoning.

This continuing patterns resource includes a set of three interactive board games focused on doubling patterns, halving patterns and solving algorithms. Each game is designed to explicitly teach the pattern rule while keeping students actively involved through play. As students move around the game boards, they apply pattern rules, make decisions and record their thinking, reinforcing their understanding in a meaningful way.

The game set includes everything teachers need to get started: clear instruction sheets, playing cards, game boards, a spinner, game pieces, a number cube for rolling, recording sheets and a complete answer key. With structured support and built‑in opportunities for discussion, this resource makes abstract pattern concepts concrete, accessible and fun.

A Number Patterns Game for Flexible and Creative Classroom Use

This number patterns game resource is designed to be flexible and adaptable, making it easy to integrate into a range of classroom contexts while keeping students motivated and engaged.

You might use these games in ways such as:

• Math stations or rotations – Set up each game at a different station so students can rotate through doubling, halving and algorithm challenges.
• Early finisher challenges – Keep the games accessible for students who finish tasks early and are ready for an extra thinking challenge.
• Student‑led teaching – Have students read the instructions and teach the game to a partner or small group, strengthening both understanding and communication.

These creative applications help transform pattern practice into purposeful play.

Number Patterns Year 3 Resource Ready to Download and Teach

This number patterns Year 3 resource is available for instant download, making it easy to prepare and start teaching right away. The game set is provided in:

• A ready‑to‑download PDF, perfect for printing boards, cards, recording sheets, and instructions
• An editable Google Slides version, allowing you to modify numbers, adjust instructions or adapt the games for your students’ needs

When accessing the Google Slides version, you will be prompted to make your own copy before editing, giving you full flexibility while preserving the original resource.

This resource was created by Lisamarie Del Valle, a Teach Starter collaborator. 

More Number Patterns Activities

Check out more of our number pattern activities below. 

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Number Patterns Year 3 and 4 Worksheet Set

Share our number patterns year 3 worksheet set with your students to give them practice with number patterns and algebraic relationships.

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Number Patterns Task Cards – Addition and Subtraction

Practise identifying the rules of patterns, determining missing numbers and interpreting word problems with this set of 36 task cards.

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Differentiated Number Pattern Worksheets for Year 3 and 4

Use this differentiated year 3 maths worksheet to allow students to practise completing number patterns and determining their rules.