Dear Pattern Detectors,

Humans are really good at discovering patterns. It’s how our minds make sense of the world. Not only do we see patterns in nature (many of which don’t really exist) but we also like to think up patterns of our own. Those patterns, even though they don’t come directly out of the world, can tell us a whole lot about it.

Today we’ll begin exploring one of my favorite patterned creations. And we’ll practice the mindset that all great mathematicians have: look for patterns everywhere.

Sincerely,

Mr. Heimbuck