Look at Patterns and Sequences of Shapes in Different Orientations

In this activity, we will determine what comes next in a pattern of shapes in different orientations. 

 

 

Shapes in different orientations mean shapes that have been rotated into different positions. 

 

Let's have a look at a few examples. 

 

Example 1

Look at this pattern with rotated cylinders. 

 

    

 

Which shape would be next? A or B?

   

The pattern finished on shape A, so the next shape would be shape B. 

 

Example 2

Look at this pattern of rotating triangles. 

  

Which triangle would come next? A or B?

The answer is B. The triangle is moving a quarter turn clockwise each time. Clockwise means turning the same way a clock's hands would move.

Here, there are red dots at the top point of the triangle to help us to see how it has rotated:

 

  

 

 

Are you ready to tackle some questions?