More and Gone
To develop early understanding of quantity language 'more' and 'gone' through everyday experiences.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Mathematics
- Learning area: Mathematics
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Signs or gestures for 'more'
- Responds to 'all gone'
- Shows anticipation in repetitive quantity games
- Uses 'more' vocally or through gesture
Materials
- Snack time opportunities
- Small food pieces for counting
- Gesture support (signs)
- Repetitive language routine
Instructions
Use snack and mealtimes consistently. When a baby finishes food, show an empty bowl or tray: 'All GONE! No more! All gone!' Use clear, consistent language every time. Pair it with an open-palm gesture.
When giving more food: 'MORE! Here comes more!' Use the Makaton sign for 'more' (fingertips touching repeatedly). Babies learn the sign before the word and can use it to request more before they can speak.
Watch for babies signing or reaching for more — respond immediately and label: 'More! You want more! Here you are — more grapes!' The response validates their communication attempt.
Play 'more or gone?' with a favourite toy. Hide the toy: 'Gone! Where is it? All gone!' Reveal it: 'There it is! More teddy!' Repeat until the baby shows anticipation of the reveal.
At bath time: 'The water is going down the drain — look, going, going... ALL GONE!' This mathematical moment is embedded naturally in routine.
Use the language in positive moments: 'One more push on the swing! One more song! One more story!' This embeds 'one more' as a quantity concept in pleasurable context.