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.”

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