Course Plan: Introduction to Mathematics for Reception / Kindergarten
Course Introduction
Welcome to our Mathematics course designed specifically for Reception and Kindergarten students! This course aims to introduce young learners to the fundamental concepts of mathematics in a fun, engaging, and interactive way. By focusing on number measurement, algebra, fine motor skills, and shapes, students will develop a solid foundation for future mathematical learning. Each lesson has been carefully crafted to cater to the learning styles of young children, incorporating play, stories, and hands-on activities.
Course Goals and Aims
Goals
- To introduce basic concepts of numbers, measurement, algebra, shape recognition, and fine motor skills in a playful and engaging manner.
- To foster a positive attitude towards mathematics through games and creative activities.
- To develop essential fine motor skills necessary for writing and manipulation of math-related materials.
Aims
- Understand numbers: Recognize, count, and compare numbers up to 10.
- Measurement skills: Explore basic concepts of measurement using informal units.
- Algebraic thinking: Identify patterns and sequences in a variety of contexts.
- Shape recognition: Identify and describe basic geometric shapes.
- Fine motor development: Enhance fine motor skills through various engaging activities.
Course Modules and Lesson Breakdown
Module 1: Introduction to Numbers (Lessons 1-6)
-
Lesson 1: Introduction to Numbers (Count to 5)
- Activities: Counting with fingers and using counting songs.
- Resource: Ten Little Ducks Video.
-
Lesson 2: Counting and Comparing (5-10)
- Activities: Comparing groups of objects.
- Resource: Number comparison worksheets.
-
Lesson 3: Number Line (1-10)
- Activities: Creating a number line with tape and markers.
- Resource: Interactive number line app.
-
Lesson 4: Number Recognition
- Activities: Number scavenger hunts.
- Resource: Flashcards with numbers.
-
Lesson 5: Making Groups (1-10)
- Activities: Collaborative group activities.
- Resource: Counting in groups worksheet.
-
Lesson 6: Number Songs
- Activities: Create a number song.
- Resource: Five Little Monkeys song video.
Module 2: Measurement Basics (Lessons 7-12)
-
Lesson 7: Introduction to Measurement
- Activities: Measuring objects using blocks.
- Resource: Measuring with informal units worksheet.
-
Lesson 8: Tall vs Short
- Activities: Compare tall and short objects.
- Resource: Story: Tallulah's Tails.
-
Lesson 9: Heavy vs Light
- Activities: Comparing weights with balance scales.
- Resource: Weight comparison video.
-
Lesson 10: Introduction to Length
- Activities: Measuring lengths of classroom items.
- Resource: Length measurement worksheet.
-
Lesson 11: Simple Capacity
- Activities: Pouring water in different containers.
- Resource: The Very Hungry Caterpillar water play activity.
-
Lesson 12: Review and Fun Activity
- Activities: Measurement relay race.
- Resource: Measurement recap video.
Module 3: Intro to Algebra (Lessons 13-18)
-
Lesson 13: Patterns in Everyday Life
- Activities: Identifying patterns in nature.
- Resource: Pattern Play story.
-
Lesson 14: Creating Patterns
- Activities: Building patterns with beads.
- Resource: Pattern worksheet.
-
Lesson 15: Recognizing Sequences
- Activities: Sequencing story events.
- Resource: Fun sequencing video.
-
Lesson 16: Sorting Objects
- Activities: Sort objects by size, color, or shape.
- Resource: Sorting materials worksheet.
-
Lesson 17: Simple Puzzles
- Activities: Completing jigsaw puzzles.
- Resource: Interactive puzzles online.
-
Lesson 18: Patterns Art Gallery
- Activities: Creating an art piece based on patterns.
- Resource: Arts and crafts supplies.
Module 4: Shapes and Fine Motor Skills (Lessons 19-24)
-
Lesson 19: Introduction to Shapes
- Activities: Identifying shapes in the environment.
- Resource: Shape Song video.
-
Lesson 20: 2D Shapes
- Activities: Creating 2D art projects.
- Resource: 2D shapes worksheet.
-
Lesson 21: 3D Shapes
- Activities: Building 3D shapes with clay.
- Resource: 3D shapes exploration video.
-
Lesson 22: Fine Motor Skills Development
- Activities: Cutting and pasting shapes.
- Resource: Fine motor skills worksheets.
-
Lesson 23: Crafting with Shapes
- Activities: Create a collage using different shapes.
- Resource: Shape collage activity materials.
-
Lesson 24: Review and Celebration
- Activities: Review learning with a maths carnival.
- Resource: Review worksheets from previous lessons.
References
- Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA). (n.d.). Foundation to Year 2 Mathematics Curriculum.
- Wright, R. J. (2015). Learning Mathematics: From the Classroom to the World. Oxford University Press.
- Burns, M. (2017). About Teaching Mathematics: A K-8 Resource. Heinemann.
- van de Walle, J. A. (2018). Elementary and Middle School Mathematics: Teaching Developmentally. Pearson Education.
By following this course plan, students will gain foundational mathematical skills through varied and engaging activities designed for their developmental levels. Each lesson is structured to involve active participation, ensuring that learning is both effective and enjoyable. Happy learning!