Spanish Counting
Level 1 builds foundational geography and cultural awareness. 'Spanish Counting' reinforces identity and belonging.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Around the World
- Learning area: Numeracy
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Identify country on map
- Follow 2–3 steps
- Recognise flag/colours
- Participate in discussion
Instructions
Materials
- Ten large, colorful plastic counting bears or wooden blocks.
- One small basket or tray for each child.
- Printed cards featuring the numerals 1 through 5 with corresponding dots.
- A Spanish language audio clip or a teacher reference sheet for pronunciation.
- A set of five felt circles in different colours.
Learning Objectives
- Recognise and name the numbers one through five in Spanish.
- Demonstrate one-to-one correspondence by touching objects while counting.
- Match a specific quantity of objects to a numeral card.
- Follow simple verbal instructions in a foreign language.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather students in a circle and place the materials in the centre.
2. Introduce the numbers one through five in Spanish by saying them clearly and asking the children to repeat each word.
3. Model the counting process by placing one bear on the floor and saying uno.
4. Continue adding bears one by one until you reach cinco, encouraging the group to count along with you.
5. Distribute a small basket and five bears to each child.
6. Ask the children to place one bear in their basket while saying uno together.
7. Repeat this process until every child has five bears in their basket, counting in Spanish at each step.
8. Transition to independent work by placing a numeral card in front of each child.
9. Instruct the children to place the matching number of bears onto their card.
10. Circulate the room to provide individual support and praise for correct counting.
Educator Tip
To support children who struggle with the new vocabulary, keep the pace slow and repeat the Spanish numbers frequently throughout the day during routine transitions. If a child masters counting to five quickly, challenge them by introducing the numbers six through ten or by asking them to sort the bears by colour while counting.
Assessment
- Observe if the child correctly identifies the Spanish word for each number.
- Note if the child touches each object once while counting to avoid skipping items.
- Verify if the child can successfully match the quantity of bears to the numeral card provided.
Assessment
Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Checklist: participation, correct identification, completion of task.