Count every pictured counter once. How many counters are shown altogether?
+
- 4
- 6
- 5
Explanation and discussion
The two pictured groups contain 3 and 2 counters. Counting all of them once ends at 5.
How can we make sure no counter is counted twice?
Count each object once and connect the amount to a numeral or number word.
What it is about
Count pictured sets to 20, including zero; match numeral, word and quantity.
Year 1 · 5–6 years · 30 challenges
Before you begin
- Count small sets and compare familiar objects.
What the class will do
- Choose and explain · 30 challenges
Count without missing
Count pictured sets to 20, including zero; match numeral, word and quantity.
Using it in class
Teacher reads prompts and number words. Use the pictured counter groups where shown; their labels support numeral matching. For requested drawings, draw the exact set before pupils answer. Point to each object once; discuss missed/double counts. No speed requirement or formal addition is needed.
Give everyone time to think and discuss before one pupil acts at the board. The class explains and confirms together; hints and explanations stay until you move on.
Use an up-to-date browser on a computer connected to a whiteboard or shared display. Touch, mouse and keyboard; optional audio and reduced motion. No pupil accounts or personal devices.
Choose from 5 challenges up to the full activity. Discussion determines the duration: you set the pace.
A look inside the activities
Count the complete picture. A friend stopped after nine. What number should the whole count reach?
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- 9
- 14
- 15
Explanation and discussion
Nine counters and six counters make 15. Stopping at 9 misses the other group.
How can we keep track while moving from one group to the other?
A pupil counted this picture and finished on six. No objects moved. What does six tell us?
+
- There are six counters altogether.
- Only the last counter is worth six.
- Each group has six counters.
Explanation and discussion
The picture contains 4 and 2 counters, so the last count, six, tells the whole amount. It does not make every group six.
Could we point to a different counter last and still count six?
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