aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Mathematics
What age group	Reception / Kindergarten
What topic	Phonics
Quantity	1
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Engaging Phonics Lesson for Reception

Introduction: The Sound Adventure

Objective

To introduce young learners to phonics in a fun and interactive way that integrates basic mathematics concepts.

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Materials Needed

• Letter cards: A set of cards with letters from A to Z
• Picture cards: Cards with images of objects that start with each letter (e.g., Apple, Ball)
• Number cards: Cards with numbers 1 to 10
• Large whiteboard or chart paper
• Markers: A selection of colourful markers
• Sound props: Items like shakers or bells to make sounds

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Lesson Start: The Sounds and Shapes Game

Welcome the Class

Gather the children in a circle and welcome them excitedly. Explain that they are going on a "Sound Adventure" today where they will explore letters, sounds, and even some friendly numbers!

Create Intrigue with a Story

Begin with a short, imaginative story:

"Once upon a time in the Land of Letters, there lived a magical character named phonics who loved to play with sounds and shapes! Phonics had a special treasure map with letters and numbers that would lead us to exciting adventures if we could help decipher them!"

The Sound Hunt

1. Introduce the Letter Cards: Show a few letter cards (A, B, C) to grab their attention. Explain that each letter makes a sound and has friends, which are the images on the picture cards.

2. Sound Exploration:

   • Start with the letter 'A'.
   • Hold up the letter card and say, “Can you help me find the sound that starts with this letter?”
   • Show a picture card with an apple. Ask the children, “What sound does 'apple' start with?” Encourage the class to say, “Ah!”

3. Linking Sounds to Numbers:

   • Next, hold up the number card with the number 1 and say, “Let’s count how many sounds we can make!”
   • As a group, make the sound together: “Ah!” (for apple) – that’s 1 sound!
   • Progressively involve more letters and numbers, always tying the sounds to the number of corresponding items (e.g., B for Ball = 2 sounds).

Interactive Participation: Sound and Number Dance

Finish the introduction by inviting the kids to stand up:

• Sound Dance: When they hear a sound, they must move to that letter or number card spread around the room. If they hear "A for Apple,” they rush to the 'A' card and shout “Ah!”
• Reward them with a cheerful sound from the props like bells or shakers whenever they make it to the right card.

Explanation of The Lesson Ahead

Conclude this engaging start by telling the children that they will:

• Learn more sounds and practice making words.
• Find out how letters and sounds can help them count and play together with numbers.

Transition

Now that they're warmed up and excited, transition into the main lesson where they will combine phonics and basic mathematics together through fun activities!

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Conclusion

By starting the lesson this way, you captivate the young learners' attention, combining adventure, exploration, and interaction—all while laying the foundation for phonics in a playful manner. Enjoy the Sound Adventure!