From the image you provided, it appears there are three patterns made of squares, and they increase in size as you move from Pattern 1 to Pattern 3. These types of questions typically involve identifying how the pattern changes, then finding an algebraic expression to describe the relationship between the step number and the total number of squares.

Here's how you can approach the problem:

1. Step 1: Identify the number of squares in each pattern.

   • Pattern 1 has a certain number of squares.
   • Pattern 2 has more squares.
   • Pattern 3 has even more squares.

2. Step 2: Look for a consistent growth.

   • Observe how the number of squares increases from one pattern to the next.
   • Count the squares in each pattern.

3. Step 3: Formulate an expression.

   • If the number of squares grows in a linear fashion (e.g., by a fixed number), the expression would be linear, like $2n + 1$.
   • If the number of squares increases quadratically (e.g., by an increasing number), you might need a quadratic expression, like $n^2 + 2n$.

4. Step 4: Test the expression.

   • Once you identify a pattern, create an algebraic formula to represent it and check it against the number of squares for each step.

Let me know if you'd like me to count the squares in each pattern and guide you through finding the expression!

Would you like details or have any questions on this so far? Here are five related questions to explore further:

1. How many squares are there in each pattern (Pattern 1, Pattern 2, Pattern 3)?
2. What is the difference in the number of squares between each pattern?
3. Does the pattern appear linear, quadratic, or another type?
4. What could be the next pattern in the sequence, and how many squares would it have?
5. Can you test an expression with variables that fit the patterns?

Tip: When analyzing sequences or patterns, always check for consistency in the rate of growth—this helps determine whether the relationship is linear, quadratic, or another form.