How to Teach Math to Grade One
Help first-graders tap into the analytical and logical portion of their mind with activities to teach beginner math. Use color, light, sound and group interaction to help children learn and memorize basic math functions and numbers. Break down first-grade math lessons to manageable portions to deal with a child's short attention span. Work with simple craft supplies to let children work with their hands while they review how to count numbers and solve simple math equations.
Things You'll Need
- Construction paper
- Markers
- Glue
- Scissors
- Small toys
- Card stock
- Glitter
- Hole punch
- Metal ring
- Drum
- Tambourine
- Egg-shakers
- Paper fasteners
Instructions
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Make money. Use construction paper and markers and glue to create money. Print profile images of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Alexander Hamilton to create $1, $5 and $10 bills. Let children decorate their money with the crayons and other craft supplies. Bring in small toys and treats and label each with a price tag. Help students use their money to pay for their items to teach them the value of money.
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2
Teach math with giant numbers. Draw and cut out large-sized numbers on card stock. Let each child decorate the image with glue, glitter, sequins or other eye-catching material. Draw a large addition, subtraction and equals signs and let children decorate those as well. Give each child a number or arithmetic sign to help physically teach the meaning of addition and subtraction. Allow each child to take their decorated number home.
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3
Make flash cards to help first-graders memorize different addition and subtraction combinations. Write simple math problems on a chalkboard. Cut out small squares of cardstock and help students copy the problem on the front and the answer on the back of the card. Punch a hole in each card and slide the cards onto a metal ring to help students keep track of the cards. Use the cards to review before a quiz or test.
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Create music. Use simple musical instruments such as a drum, tambourines or shakers to help teach children about math in music. Print off a sheet of music with a simple melody to teach the principles behind counting the beat in music. Work on rhythm and beat and in melody by singing the song along with students to give an audio example of how math works in music.
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5
Design a clock. Cut large circles out of multi-colored construction paper. Help first graders draw the numbers around the perimeter of the circle to represent a clock. Cut out two arrows for each child. Push a paper fastener through the blunt end of each arrow and secure in the center of the paper circle. Teach children how to count and measure time with their paper clocks.
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Tips & Warnings
Sing songs about addition and other basic math concepts.
Take frequent breaks and work on other lessons to avoid frustration in the classroom.
References
- Photo Credit school tools image by leafy from Fotolia.com
