Settling into Math

First grade math begins with reestablishing fundamental principles of number sense in order to build a solid foundation for our more in-depth work throughout the year. We have been recognizing, counting and writing numbers to ten in a variety of ways.  We played Number Match to group sets of cards with numerals, picture sets and number words together.  We use our calendar, 100s chart and ten frames everyday to count, compare and problem solve about numbers.  We also notice sequencing and patterns as we add new numbers each day.  As the students respond to and ask questions about our number work they are discovering that there are many ways to solve problems and strategies to use to understand new and changing concepts.

                                       Comparing numbers with a graph and animal counters.

The students have been comparing numbers and sets as well, using the terminology greater than, fewer than and the same as to express what they are noticing. For many, greater than and fewer than have been tricky to keep straight and find using more than and less than more familiar. A fun game that is already being requested to play is Hi/Lo.  It is comparable to a game many knew in the past as, War, but can be played with the higher card taking the hand or the lower card taking the hand.  It has been a wonderful way for the students to practice number comparison.

                                                     A favorite game already, Hi/Lo!

We have had opportunities for several dice games which are a great way for students to develop a visual concept of the numbers one through six.  As they practice with dice, the visual pattern of each number becomes recognizable and can be applied to sets and picture sets so that students can visually determine an amount quickly and without having to count.  Games are a fabulous way to help students practice and solidify number sense in fun and meaningful ways.

                                               Dice Racing helps establish visual patterns!

Our most recent project was to think about how we use numbers in our lives.  The students created a puzzle like frame for a portrait that was made using sentences about their specific numbers.  Some of these included their age, how many people in their family, their shoe size or the number of pets that they have. Their portraits are vividly displayed outside the first grade classrooms.  Stop by and take a look!  'Count' on being amazed! The students are growing as mathematicians every singe day!