Skip Counting Chains

Skip counting on bead chains builds the foundation for multiplication by making 'groups of' concrete and countable.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Mathematics
• Learning area: Linear Counting
• Level: Ages 4-6

Objectives

• Skip count by 2, 3, 4, 5
• Build multiplication readiness
• Recognize repeating patterns

Materials

• Short bead chains (squares): chain of 4, 9, 16, 25
• Arrow labels for multiples
• Corresponding bead squares

Instructions

1. Present chain of 4 (two 2-bars). 2. Count each bead. 3. Skip count: '2, 4.' 4. Present chain of 9 (three 3-bars). 5. Skip count: '3, 6, 9.' 6. Fold chain to make square. 7. '3 taken 3 times makes 9—a square!'

Educator tip

The square chains beautifully connect skip counting to square numbers and multiplication.

Assessment

Child skip counts accurately and connects chains to squares.

More from Mathematics

• Teen Board Number Building
• Hundred Board Patterns
• Counting Backwards from 20
• The Bank Game
• Numeral Card Composition
• The Change Game
• Golden Bead Number Dictation
• Static Addition (No Exchanging)