- Definition
An "element" is simply one of the individual pieces or parts that make up a pattern. For example, in a pattern like circle, square, circle, square, the circle and the square are the elements.
In a pattern of circle, square, circle, square, the two elements are the circle and the square.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Elements are like the different kinds of beads you use to make a patterned necklace.
Ask your child: What are the different shapes in this pattern?
Common mix-up: Kids may only see the whole pattern instead of the pieces it's made of. An element is one of the individual building blocks that repeats.
Examples
- In a red, blue, red, blue colour pattern, the elements are the colours red and blue.
- In a clap, stomp, clap, stomp pattern, the elements are the clap and the stomp.
element is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
+112 more mentions across the curriculum
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
