Dot-To-Dot Concepts
Seemingly a simple child's game, dot to dot is actually a passive learning format that teaches several different educational elements. Abstract thinking, pattern forming, repetition and memorization of letters or numbers and critical thinking are all concepts that dot to dot can teach. The format even when simple promotes a basic understanding of how connecting the dots, creating a pattern and following logical thinking produces a hidden shape as a result.
Simple Patterns
The most basic dot-to-dot designs can encompass not much more than basic shapes with just a few dots in the design. The dots can be labeled with whatever level of understanding the target user is capable of, such as the first few letters of alphabet or numbers. These designs can also be simple shapes such as a square or triangle with minimal steps as an introduction to the dot-to-dot concept.
Math Oriented
Using a number pattern to create a picture, shape or even complete math formulas can be a dot-to-dot format that is also considered passive education and puzzle-oriented at the same time. Simple math-oriented dot to dots are a matter of following the numbers in order and connecting the dots to make a simple shape or picture. More complicated means may involve solving a math equation first and corresponding the answer to see which dot to connect next to form the picture. Incorrect answers would mean an incorrect pattern.
Advanced Dot To Dot
Intricate designs and spatial concepts can be created with more detailed and challenging dot-to-dot creations. More than a simple game, these are puzzle-oriented and can require abstract thinking even though the patterns still follow basic dot-to-dot rules. Sometimes called extreme dot to dot, these can be challenging to complete. Some puzzles contain upwards of 1,400 dot points to decipher and connect, creating intricate and detailed pictures as a result. These are definitely the higher level learning form of the dot to dot.