Place Value - Negative Numbers (2) - Planning

In a Year 6 mathematics lesson focused on place value, students delve deeper into the concept of negative numbers. The lesson begins with a small step starter to refresh the knowledge acquired in the previous session. Students are then encouraged to apply their understanding of negative numbers to solve practical word problems. For example, they are presented with a scenario where Leanna has £22.50 in her bank account and spends £40 on a jumper. Through guided discussions, the students determine the appropriate mathematical operation to find out Leanna's new account balance. They learn how to navigate through transactions that result in an overdraft, thereby understanding the practical application of negative numbers in everyday contexts. Differentiated activity sheets allow for consolidation of learning at various levels of difficulty, ensuring that all students can engage with the content effectively.

Throughout the lesson, key questions prompt students to explore the nature of negative numbers, such as their status as whole numbers and their representation on a number line. The lesson aims to correct common misconceptions, like the incorrect assumption that -2 is greater than -1, by explaining that the value of negative numbers decreases as they move further below zero. A plenary session encourages students to reflect on their learning, discussing what they found challenging and what strategies or tools aided their understanding. The lesson concludes with differentiated objectives that cater to varying levels of mastery, from solving simple one-step problems to tackling more complex multi-step problems that may include decimals, thus catering to students working towards expected standards and those exploring the subject at greater depth.