Lesson Plan: Interrupting Counting
Subject: Mathematics
Grade Level: Reception / Kindergarten
Duration: 30 Minutes
Topic: Interrupting Counting
Objectives
- Students will be able to recognize and understand the concept of numbers up to 20.
- Students will practice counting forward and identifying numbers that interrupt a counting sequence.
- Students will engage in activities that encourage critical thinking about numbers.
Materials Needed
- Counting blocks or cubes (numbered 1-20)
- Number flashcards (1-20)
- A whiteboard and markers
- Worksheets for independent practice
- A small bell or a small percussion instrument for a counting game
Introduction (5 minutes)
- Greeting and Warm-up:
- Begin the class with a brief greeting. Ask students if they enjoy counting and if they can count to 10 together.
- Introduction to Interrupting Counting:
- Explain that today they will learn how to count but sometimes, numbers might interrupt our counting sequence. Use the example: “If we are counting by ones, what happens if I say a different number in between?”
Direct Instruction (10 minutes)
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Counting Demonstration:
- Using the counting blocks, demonstrate counting from 1 to 20 and then intentionally interrupt the counting with a different number (e.g., “1, 2, 3, 5, 4, 6...”).
- Ask students to identify the mistake and correct the counting.
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Number Flashcards:
- Show flashcards and ask students to call out the number on the card. As you show each card, sometimes flash an incorrect number to interrupt the flow.
- Praise students for correcting the interrupts and encourage them to shout “Stop!” if they see an interruption.
Guided Practice (10 minutes)
-
Counting Game:
- Using the small bell or percussion instrument, play a game where you count to 10, and at certain intervals ring the bell for students to shout the next number. Occasionally interrupt them with another number.
- Discuss what number interrupted the sequence and invite students to correct it.
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Worksheet Activity:
- Distribute worksheets that have sequences with interruptions. For example, “1, 2, 3, , 5, , 7” where students fill in the blanks or circle the incorrect numbers in a sequence.
Independent Practice (5 minutes)
- Provide students with a counting worksheet where they will cut out number cards and glue them on the correct spaces in a sequence, identifying which numbers relate and correcting any interruptions.
Conclusion (5 minutes)
- Review the lesson's main points:
- Counting is great, but we sometimes make mistakes.
- Numbers can be fun to work with even when they interrupt!
- Take a moment to share a few students’ answers from their worksheets.
Homework
Counting Challenge:
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Count from 1 to 20, but skip the numbers: 5, 10, and 15.
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Write down the numbers you counted:
- Your numbers: ___
(Expected answer: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Draw a picture of your favorite number and share why that number is special to you.
Assessment
- Observe participation during counting games and activities to gauge understanding of interrupting counting.
- Review worksheets and homework to assess comprehension and ability to identify and correct number interruptions.
Additional Notes
- Adapt the lesson based on the needs and understanding of your students.
- Encourage cooperation by pairing students for group activities and encouraging dialogue about their thought processes when counting.
This lesson plan aims to engage young learners with a fun approach to recognizing counting sequences and interruptions, allowing for a mix of instruction, practice, and creativity!