Skip Counting by 5s Pattern Worksheet for Grade 1

Many children can chant 5, 10, 15, 20, yet hesitate when an add-5 pattern starts at 12 or 33. This worksheet deliberately mixes familiar multiples of five with less familiar starting numbers. It helps Grade 1 learners understand that “add 5” is a rule that works from any starting point.

Activities on the printable

The opening section asks for the next three numbers in eight sequences. Some begin with 5 or 30, while others begin with 7, 19, 23, or 48. A missing-number section places gaps inside the rows. Four skip-count paths provide a visual route from a starting stone to a corrected ending value, and the challenge checks longer continuation, missing values, repeated addition from 35, and a multiple-choice next-number item.

How to find the next number

Show the child two dependable methods. First, add five ones using a number line or counters. Second, add 5 by moving to the next number ending in 0 or 5, then keeping track of the starting ones digit. In 12, 17, 22, 27, the ones digits alternate 2 and 7 while the whole number grows by five. In 33, 38, 43, 48, the same alternation appears.

Work one example aloud: “I start at 44. Five more is 49, five more is 54, and five more is 59.” Ask the learner to check each neighboring pair rather than relying only on how the row sounds.

Common misunderstandings

• Counting only multiples of five: remind the learner that a pattern can start at any number.
• Writing 12, 17, 23: the second jump is 6, so the rule changed. Recount five spaces.
• Changing the tens digit too early: use an open number line across 27–32.
• Copying the printed endpoint: on a path, calculate every landing stone in order.

Teaching and extension ideas

For support, let the child mark +5 hops above each pair. A hundred chart can also help: move five spaces while counting each square. For extension, ask whether 16, 21, 26, 31 will ever land exactly on 50. The child can continue the pattern and explain what happens. This builds reasoning without adding an unrelated activity.

Answer guidance

Every neighboring pair should differ by exactly 5. The corrected path endings are 25, 35, 20, and 45, with three missing stones between each start and finish. The complete six-worksheet answer key provides all entries in reading order. Next, use the counting-by-10s number patterns worksheet, or choose the mixed pattern practice to compare several rules on one page.