A pattern scan is a short, repeatable routine that any leadership team can run. It keeps conversations focused and reduces speculation.

Step 1: Name the dataset
Be specific. For example: “Week-by-week attendance, Term 3 to Term 4.”

Step 2: Choose the unit of analysis
Whole school, year level, class, or student group.

Step 3: Look for three signals

• Direction: Up, down, flat.

• Size: Is the shift meaningful or small noise?

• Consistency: Does it persist across multiple points?

Step 4: Write a neutral statement
Avoid blame. Use neutral language.
Example: “Year 8 attendance has declined by 3% over six weeks.”

Step 5: Write two possible explanations
Keep them as hypotheses, not conclusions.

Step 6: Choose one follow-up check
Decide what will confirm or challenge your explanation.

Key Takeaways

• Use a shared routine to reduce opinion battles.

• Write neutral statements before suggesting causes.

• Always choose a follow-up check.

Quick Check

Rewrite this as a neutral statement: “Year 9 are unmotivated.”