Cards and Counters

Cards and Counters combines symbol recognition with counting while naturally introducing the concept of odd and even through the visual pattern of paired counters.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Mathematics
• Learning area: Counting & Quantity
• Level: Ages 3-5

Objectives

• Associate numerals with quantities
• Introduce odd and even numbers
• Develop systematic arrangement skills
• Reinforce counting 1-10

Materials

• Numeral cards 1-10
• 55 identical counters (circles or chips)
• Work mat

Instructions

1. Lay numeral cards in order 1-10. 2. Count counters under each card. 3. Arrange in pairs (vertical columns of 2). 4. Observe: some have 'extra' counter at bottom. 5. Introduce: 'These are odd, these are even.' 6. Discuss patterns.

Educator tip

Let children discover the odd/even pattern before naming it. The visual arrangement makes it obvious.

Assessment

Child arranges counters correctly and identifies odd and even numbers.

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• Ten Boards (Seguin B)
• Hundred Board
• Golden Beads: Introduction
• Golden Beads: Building Large Numbers
• Addition with Golden Beads
• Subtraction with Golden Beads
• Stamp Game