Number & Numeracy in FNF

Our Math classes consist of two parts called Strands. We begin our lesson with a focus on the Number Strand. We rotate in small groups between various warm up activities. The learning intention is for students to strengthen their counting skills. We practise counting numbers in order, counting each object once and remembering the total. Today we are using materials including number strips, matching ‘domino’ cards, roll with a dice & write boards, and number tracing cards. After our warmup we then move to the Numeracy Strand. In this part of our lesson we investigate mandated applied Math concepts. This week’s focus is the topic Location. The first steps in our learning sequence are unpacking the language of ‘location’ and ‘direction’. A focus includes various exposures to what ‘right & left’ is. We tune into the concept by watching a short video and doing a ‘Simon says’ inspired dance where we are directed to use right and left parts of our bodies. The ‘explore’ part of our lesson presents us with a challenge to each make a pair of right & left arrows. We incorporate our Literacy learning by labelling our arrows ‘right’ & ‘left’. We use the arrows to share our understanding of ‘right & left’ with our classmates. Our classmates give us feedback and check to see the direction our ‘right’ & ‘left’ arrows are pointing. We then take the arrows home to show our families what we know about ‘right’ & ‘left’. 

The Playful Learning Clover directs our lesson design and delivery. Playful learning is an approach that has been shown to enhance learning by making the journey joyful, explorative and student led and this, in turn, supports understanding of concepts and retention of knowledge.