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Maths

Count and Compare

Overview

Children count groups of objects and compare which is more or less.

Learning Objective
Children compare quantities using counting and simple language.

Resources needed

  • Two groups of objects (stones, sticks, counters)

Lesson stages

0 / 7 done
  1. 1 Show two groups of objects.
  2. 2 Count each group together.
  3. 3 Ask: 'Which has more? Which has fewer?'
  4. 4 Encourage children to explain how they know.
  5. 5 Change the groups and repeat.
  6. 6 Introduce equal groups.
  7. 7 Use language such as more, less, same.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Use larger numbers
  • Let children create their own groups
  • Compare more than two groups
More information

Introduce 'more', 'fewer', and 'same' one at a time. Use gestures to reinforce meaning.

Use very different group sizes first before moving to groups that are close in number.

Can children use the language correctly? Do they need to count or can they see the difference visually?

Use any two groups of natural objects — leaves, stones, sticks. No prepared materials needed.

Children often judge 'more' by the length of a row rather than the count, especially if objects are spread out. Demonstrate that a spread-out group of 4 and a close group of 4 are the same quantity.

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