What is a pattern? We seek to make sense of our world by looking for order and regularity. We can find patterns in identifiable shapes and in predictable number sequences. We can also find patterns in nature—in fact, once we start looking, patterns are everywhere! Recognizing patterns is an important skill that builds math literacy and understanding. In this newsletter, we invite you to have fun with patterns!

"There is something infinitely healing in these repeated refrains of nature, the assurance that night after night, dawn comes, and spring after winter."
— Rachel Carson

In their sit spots this week, learners will be asked to consider, look for, and journal about things in nature that are predictable.

Looking for patterns in nature can be mesmerizing and offers a chance to see nature’s artistic marvel. Students will explore the concept of patterns and will be challenged to collect examples of patterns in the natural world. After this exploration, learners can watch this video with Wildsight educator Monica Nissen and discover some of the ways mathematicians and scientists have described the different types of patterns found in nature. 

Once you start looking for patterns in nature, you’ll see them everywhere! Exploring patterns provides opportunities to recognize the rules of patterns and helps build math and thinking skills. Students will continue exploring the world of patterns with these Playing with Patterns activities.

Symmetry is found everywhere in nature and is also one of the most prevalent themes in art, architecture, and design. Students will be invited to make an art piece inspired by one of the most intriguing and amazing types of patterns: symmetry!

Join Wildsight educator Mary Searchfield for a virtual reading of a wonderful story about another incredible pattern—the ‘swirl’ or spiral! Afterwards, students can learn more about some of the reasons for and benefits of the spiral shape in the natural world.

Bees are brilliant architects incorporating fascinating patterns in their life cycles, and in the structures they use to lay their eggs. Get the “buzz” on native bees with this resource sheet, as well as some tips on making your yard a more bee-friendly place.

Next week will be our final newsletter for the school year. Join us as we celebrate the coming of summer with our summer solstice issue!

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