Lesson Plan: Count to 5
Subject
Mathematics
Grade Level
Reception / Kindergarten
Duration
30 minutes
Objectives
- Students will be able to recognize and say the numbers 1 through 5.
- Students will be able to count objects from 1 to 5.
- Students will develop an understanding of one-to-one correspondence.
Materials Needed
- Counting manipulatives (e.g., counting bears, blocks, or buttons)
- Number cards (1-5)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Picture book that includes counting (e.g., "Five Little Ducks")
- Music player for songs or counting games
Introduction (5 minutes)
Begin the lesson by gathering the students in a circle. Introduce the topic of counting by asking the students to help you count some items on a table (e.g., apples).
Script Example:
"Good morning, everyone! Today, we're going to learn how to count to 5! Can anyone tell me how many fingers we've got on one hand? Let's count them together!"
Direct Instruction (10 minutes)
-
Counting from 1 to 5:
- Use the whiteboard to write the numbers 1 through 5.
- Show number cards as you say each number. Encourage the students to repeat after you.
-
Demonstrate One-to-One Correspondence:
- Using counting manipulatives, demonstrate counting by joining the number with objects. For example, place one bear down for the number 1, two bears for the number 2, and so on.
- Ask students to help you count out the bears as you place them down.
Interactive Practice:
"In front of me, I have five counting bears. Let's count them together! One (hold up one bear), two (hold up two bears), three (hold up three bears), four (hold up four bears), and five (hold up five bears)!"
Guided Practice (10 minutes)
-
Counting Activity:
- Divide the students into small groups and give each group a set of manipulatives. Ask them to count their items to 5.
- Walk around the classroom to assist students as needed, ensuring they are counting correctly.
-
Number Matching:
- Provide number cards (1-5) to pairs or small groups of students. Have them match the correct number card with a group of manipulatives.
Closure (5 minutes)
-
Gather the students back in a circle. Ask them:
- "What is the highest number we counted today?"
- "Can anyone show me how to count to 5?"
-
Read a picture book incorporating counting, such as "Five Little Ducks." Allow the students to count along with the story as you read.
Assessment
- Observe students during guided practice to determine their understanding of counting to 5.
- Use informal assessment by listening to the students' responses during the class discussions.
Extension Activities
-
Counting Songs:
- Incorporate songs that involve counting, such as "Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed" or "Five Green and Speckled Frogs."
-
Craft Activity:
- Create a counting book where students draw or paste pictures corresponding to numbers 1 through 5.
By the end of the lesson, students will have a foundational understanding of counting to 5, supporting their early math skills in a fun and engaging manner.