Numbers · first steps
Begin here, even before knowing numbers.
Match, count, combine and share. There is no need to hurry. Revisit each idea with pictures and real objects.
Nine stories, one step at a time
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Match one to one
Match objects one to one, even before knowing number names.
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One, two, three: counting
Say one number for each object; the last number tells how many there are.
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Nothing left: zero
Use zero to describe a collection with no objects.
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More, fewer, equal
Compare counts rather than spacing or object size.
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Count together: addition
Combine two collections and represent the total with addition.
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What remains: subtraction
Find what remains after taking away and compare differences by pairing.
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A bundle of ten: place value
Read numbers from 10 to 20 as tens and ones.
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Several equal groups: multiplication
Distinguish objects per group from the number of groups.
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Equal sharing: beginning division
Share one at a time to form equal portions and identify leftovers.
Explore shapes and measurements too
Pour, measure ribbons and sort shapes. After matching and counting, there are paths to explore besides fractions.
First steps with shapes, measurement and data →When reading together
If reading is still unfamiliar, a companion can read short sentences while the child moves objects. Ask ‘How did you know?’ instead of supplying the answer. Pointing and drawing can express a reason too.
Return to an earlier story when needed. Stop after one story or choose a familiar starting point.