This highly illustrated book draws together the wide variety of studies in the learning of mathematics undertaken by the Pattern in Mathematics Research Group at the University of Leeds. Their purpose has been '... to provide structure and support to ... studies of children's perception, conception and use of pattern in learning mathematics'. Set up in 1992, they have embraced work across the whole curriculum, and through all the years of compulsory schooling.
As each chapter of this book relates to a different study that was undertaken, the reader can dip in and select relevant material. At the same time, the editor has ensured continuity and progression, allowing the book to be approached as a whole: the early chapters are concerned with very young children; subsequent chapters deal with the primary and middle age ranges, and later ones relate to secondary school work. With individual chapters relating to number, algebra, shape, graphic relations and probability, this new volume provides guidance for teachers of pupils of all age groups. Patterns in mathematics are of immense importance; this book relates pattern to the teaching of mathematics through all years of school. Practical and original, it is closely tied to the National Curriculum. It is a source of new ideas for mathematic teachers at all levels.