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Maths

Count in Steps

Overview

Children explore counting in groups rather than one by one.

Learning Objective
Children count in steps (e.g. 2s or 5s).

Resources needed

  • Small objects

Lesson stages

0 / 7 done
  1. 1 Group objects into equal sets (e.g. pairs).
  2. 2 Count each group (2, 4, 6...).
  3. 3 Repeat with different group sizes.
  4. 4 Ask: 'How many altogether?'
  5. 5 Compare with counting one by one.
  6. 6 Discuss patterns.
  7. 7 Repeat with support.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Use movement (claps, jumps)
  • Count in 5s or 10s
  • Use real-life grouping (e.g. pairs of shoes)
More information

Clapping in 2s or 5s builds rhythmic feel for skip counting before abstract counting.

Pre-group objects into containers so children focus on counting the groups, not making them.

Can children count in 2s or 5s without reverting to counting by 1s? Do they understand why the total is the same?

Group seeds or stones into small piles before the session begins. Clapping or jumping in groups of 2 or 5 requires no resources at all.

Children may not understand why skipping numbers is allowed when counting in 2s or 5s. They think they are making mistakes by not saying every number. Emphasise that counting in steps is a different, faster way to count groups.

Activity details
Early Years Medium 10–15 minutes No prep Small Group, Whole Class Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Counting Multiples