Step 3 Objective

Recognise and extend number sequences formed by counting from any number in steps of constant size, extending beyond zero when counting backwards.

Examples of what pupils should know and be able to do

Count on and backwards, for example:

Recognise that counting in steps of constant size produces sequences of numbers that can be continued in either direction.

Probing questions

I know a secret sequence. It has these numbers in it: 13, 15, 17, 19.
What numbers come next in my sequence? What numbers come before? What clues did you use to work this out? Give me a number that is greater than 50 that is in my secret sequence. Tell me how you know this number is in my sequence. How could you check? Is 64 in the sequence? How do you know?

Use similar questions for a range of sequences.

What if pupils find this a barrier?