Match one to one
Match objects one to one, even before knowing number names.
Start with the objects ↓Think with objects in front of you
Give each top object one bottom partner. With nothing left over, the counts are equal.
Imagine putting one cracker on each plate. You do not need number names yet. Choose a plate and give it one cracker. Give the next plate one too.
If every plate has one cracker and no cracker is left over, there are equally many plates and crackers. Their sizes do not have to match.
If crackers remain, there are more crackers. If empty plates remain, there are more plates. Look at which side has something left over.
Move the crackers farther apart. Their positions change, but the count does not, as long as none are added or removed. Matching again checks this.
Listen one paragraph at a time
Now move the objects yourself
Tap objects to mark one partner in each row. Add one object to a row and find the unmatched object.
Tap objects to mark what you have counted. There is no time limit.
First collection
Second collection
You may use small toys or blocks instead of the screen. Explain what stayed the same and what changed.
Check your idea with different examples
Does a longer-looking row always have more objects?
You may speak or draw on paper. Look for these ideas in your explanation.
Continue reading, or pause here
Next, give the matched objects number names: one, two, three.