Patterns are everywhere: in nature, in art, and in stories. First and second graders have been exploring patterns, identifying different types, and then extending them. At the beginning of this theme unit of patterns and algebraic thinking, most students were only familiar with repeating patterns, for example, ABABAB or AABAAB. Through hands-on activities and lots of observation, first and second graders were introduced to growing (increasing) patterns and decreasing patterns. They observed how patterns can increase or decrease by a constant, and even practiced explaining and writing rules for pattern growth. Once they felt comfortable explaining the way a pattern increases or decreases, the