Cheerios Counting Necklace
Level 3 promotes multiplicative thinking.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Summer Time
- Learning area: Mathematics
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Use Cheerios for multiplication arrays
- calculate totals.
Instructions
Materials
- One box of O-shaped cereal.
- Pre-cut lengths of elastic string or yarn with taped ends.
- Small bowls or trays for sorting.
- Number cards ranging from 1 to 20.
- Masking tape for securing the string to the table.
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate one-to-one correspondence by matching one cereal piece to one count.
- Recognise and identify numerals up to 20.
- Practise fine motor control through threading small objects.
- Create a set of objects that matches a given numeral.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Set up individual workstations with a bowl of cereal, a string, and a number card.
2. Secure one end of the string to the table using masking tape to prevent the cereal from sliding off.
3. Ask the children to identify the number on their card and state it aloud.
4. Model the process by picking up one cereal piece, counting "one" clearly, and sliding it onto the string.
5. Instruct the children to thread the cereal pieces one by one while counting aloud in sequence.
6. Encourage the children to pause after each piece to verify their count against the number card.
7. Remind the children to stop threading once they reach the total number indicated on their card.
8. Assist the children in tying the ends of the string together to complete their wearable necklace.
9. Invite the children to count their peers necklaces to compare quantities.
10. Allow the children to eat their necklaces as a snack once the counting exercise is complete.
Educator Tip
If a child struggles with the fine motor aspect of threading, provide a thicker pipe cleaner instead of string to offer more stability. To extend the activity for advanced learners, ask them to create a pattern with two different colours of cereal while maintaining their count.
Assessment
- Observe if the child maintains a steady rhythm between verbal counting and physical placement of the cereal.
- Note if the child self-corrects when they accidentally add an extra piece or skip a number.
- Verify that the final number of cereal pieces on the string matches the numeral on the assigned card.
Assessment
Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Rubric: array creation, equation accuracy.