Number Rods

The Number Rods combine the sensorial experience of the Red Rods with mathematical meaning. Each rod is a fixed quantity, introducing numbers as complete entities rather than collections.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Mathematics
• Learning area: Numeracy Introduction
• Level: Ages 3-5

Objectives

• Understand quantity through length
• Experience numbers 1-10 as fixed quantities
• Build foundation for addition concepts
• Develop number vocabulary

Materials

• Number Rods: 10 rods from 10cm to 100cm
• Rods painted in alternating red and blue segments
• Each segment represents one unit (10cm)

Instructions

1. Carry rods to mat, build stair from 1 to 10. 2. Touch segments, counting: 'one, two, three...' 3. 'This is three.' (three-period lesson for quantity names) 4. Compare: 'Three is longer than two.' 5. Combine rods: '2 and 3 together are the same as 5.' 6. Play addition games with rods.

Educator tip

Count segments while touching each one. The color change helps children see where each unit ends.

Assessment

Child identifies rods by quantity, counts segments accurately, and explores combinations.

More from Mathematics

• Sandpaper Numerals
• Spindle Boxes
• Cards and Counters
• Teen Boards (Seguin A)
• Ten Boards (Seguin B)
• Hundred Board
• Golden Beads: Introduction
• Golden Beads: Building Large Numbers