In the 5-7 year old cluster, we decided that one of the things we would do to start the school year would be to focus on numeral formation and counting. We knew this would help the children write the numerals during math work the rest of the year. We also need to assess the children's knowledge of number concepts. The work is also simple enough to give us an opportunity to teach the children how to select work and which procedures to use. Some of our new students have a Montessori background since they were enrolled in our preschool program. Some of the children came to our school from other preschool programs. Some were cared for by their parents at home until age 5. Some came to us from other kindergarten programs.
Here are some of our numeral formation activities:
Using 1 X 1 Legos to form numerals.
I had 2 clear Lego brick plates. I made a copy of a plate and then designed a template for the numerals 0 to 9. The idea is that the student positions the plate under the clear plate. The student then uses 1 X 1 bricks to form the numerals.
Geoboard Numerals
Math Their Way Dot-to-Dot Templates
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Math Their Way Number Line Templates
Playdough Numerals with Ten Frames
Hundreds Board
Ten Frames with Cat Counters
Montessori Spindle Box
Montessori Hanging Bead Stair 1-9
Montessori Hanging Bead Stair - Teens