SE 2.03Matching Patterns

1. 1

   Carry the box to the table and take out the swatches one at a time, placing them at random.

2. 2

   Show how to hold a swatch by its edge and lay it flat.

3. 3

   Pick up one swatch, look at it closely, then look along the others for the one with the same pattern.

4. 4

   Place the pair side by side, touching, with the lines running the same way.

5. 5

   Continue until all swatches are paired, then look along the pairs to check each one.

6. 6

   On the same or a later day, give a three-period lesson for two or three pattern names: "stripes", "dots", "checks".

7. 7

   Return the swatches to the box and invite the child.

What catches the child’s eye

• Bold stripes beside a field of small dots
• Two checked swatches laid edge to edge so the squares line up across the join

Extensions, easiest to hardest

1. Start with three very different pairs, then add the rest.
2. Add pairs that differ only a little, such as narrow and wide stripes or small and large dots.
3. Find the same patterns on clothing and objects in the room.
4. Bring the matching swatch from across the room.