aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Mathematics
What age group	Reception / Kindergarten
What topic	Greater than/ less than
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Introduction to Greater Than and Less Than

Lesson Start: "The Magic Number Showdown!"

Objective

Engage young learners in understanding the concept of greater than and less than through an interactive and fun activity.

Materials Needed

• Two colorful boxes (can be shoe boxes, painted in different colors)
• Various small items such as plastic animals, counting blocks, or fruit cutouts
• Number cards (1 to 10)
• A large poster with the symbols: > (greater than) and < (less than)

Activity Steps

1. Set the Stage Begin by introducing the idea of a "Magic Number Showdown!" Explain that numbers are like characters in a story, and some numbers are bigger (greater) than others while some are smaller (less).

2. Show the Boxes Present the two colorful boxes and name them – for example, Box A (the big, blue box) and Box B (the small, red box). Explain that today, these boxes will represent two numbers, and we will see which box has more friends inside!

3. Fill the Boxes Invite volunteers to help fill each box with small items. For example:

   • Box A: 5 plastic animals (clap if you think that’s a lot!)
   • Box B: 3 plastic animals (fewer friends, but still fun!)

   Count together as you place the items into the boxes.

4. The Big Reveal Once both boxes are filled, ask the children:

   • "Which box has more friends?"
   • "Can we say Box A is greater than Box B?"

   Show the greater than symbol (>) as you speak.

5. Interactive Practice Once they grasp the concept, give each child a chance to make their own comparison using different items. Have them choose two groups of items, count them, and determine which is greater or less, using the boxes as a visual aid.

Closing

Wrap up the lesson with a fun chant:

• “Greater than, greater than, look and see!
• Look at the numbers, who can it be?
• Less than, less than, small and shy,
• Numbers are friends, let them all fly!”

This engaging start will capture the attention of your kindergarten students, setting a playful tone for their exploration of greater than and less than!