Number Fishing Game
Level 2 deepens number operations.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Summer Time
- Learning area: Mathematics
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Read number words
- solve simple addition using caught fish.
Instructions
Materials
- Ten paper fish cutouts with numbers 1 through 10 written on them.
- Small metal paper clips attached to the nose of each fish.
- Two wooden dowels with string and small magnets tied to the ends.
- A blue plastic bin or shallow water table.
- A recording sheet with numbers 1 through 10 listed for each child.
- Crayons or markers.
Learning Objectives
- Identify and name numerals from 1 to 10.
- Demonstrate hand-eye coordination by maneuvering the magnet to catch a fish.
- Match a physical numeral to its corresponding written symbol on a recording sheet.
- Practise turn-taking and patience during a small group activity.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place the paper fish inside the blue bin to simulate a pond.
2. Gather the children in a small circle around the bin.
3. Model how to hold the fishing pole and use the magnet to pick up a fish by the paper clip.
4. Ask a volunteer to catch one fish and identify the number written on it.
5. Have the child say the number aloud and show it to the rest of the group.
6. Instruct the child to find the matching number on their recording sheet and colour or circle it.
7. Encourage the child to pass the fishing pole to the next student.
8. Continue the process until every child has had at least two turns to fish.
9. Circulate among the children to provide support for those struggling to recognise specific numerals.
10. Conclude the activity by counting the total number of fish caught together as a group.
Educator Tip
To differentiate for children who need more support, use fish with both the numeral and a corresponding number of dots. For children who are ready for a challenge, ask them to catch two fish and add the two numbers together to find the sum.
Assessment
- Observe if the child can correctly name the numeral after catching the fish.
- Note whether the child can successfully match the caught numeral to the correct symbol on their paper.
- Record the child's ability to maintain focus and follow the rules of the game during their turn.
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. Observe addition accuracy, number word reading.