Place value within 10 - Compare objects - Starter

In the Autumn Term of Year 1, Week 3, Day 1 kicks off with an interactive activity titled 'Subtraction Smash!' where children use playdough to visually and tactilely engage with subtraction problems. The task requires them to form playdough balls to represent the first number in the subtraction equation and then 'smash' the number of balls corresponding to the second number, revealing the quantity that represents the answer. This hands-on approach helps to concretise the concept of subtraction by physically removing parts from a whole. Additionally, children are encouraged to explore the concept of halving by dividing their playdough into equal and unequal parts, discussing whether the divided portions still constitute halves. They also compare quantities, such as determining which basket has fewer apples, and use playdough to represent numbers, enhancing their understanding of place value and comparison.

On Day 2 of the same week, the focus shifts to addition and spatial awareness, with children using counters to solve problems. They begin with simple addition, doubling numbers, and then move on to more complex tasks like calculating '3 more than eight'. Questions prompt them to consider the practical application of counting, such as determining if there are enough plates for each cake, fostering real-world connections. Spatial questions about the location of objects like a teddy, a ball, and a pencil in relation to a table further develop their cognitive skills. This multifaceted approach not only reinforces numerical fluency but also introduces basic concepts of money and spatial orientation, contributing to a well-rounded mathematical foundation for young learners.