Counting Dog Bones

Counting with concrete manipulatives builds foundational number sense and supports the development of mathematical vocabulary in meaningful contexts.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: Pets
• Learning area: Numeracy
• Level: Infant & Toddler, IPC Level 1, IPC Level 2, IPC Level 3

Objectives

• Count aloud dog bones to five or higher along with peers and teacher
• Arrange sets of dog bones using one-to-one correspondence
• Count by ones to ten or higher

Materials

• Pictures of pets
• Number flashcards
• Numbered construction paper dog bones
• Book: 'Clifford the Small Puppy' by Norman Bridwell

Instructions

Begin by gathering children in a comfortable reading area and sharing the story 'Clifford the Small Puppy' by Norman Bridwell, pausing to admire the illustrations and invite predictions about what might happen next. Following the story, encourage students to discuss their favorite parts while you display the dog bone cutouts across a visible surface. Guide the whole group in counting aloud as you point to each bone in sequence, modeling clear enunciation and one-to-one correspondence. Divide the class into two groups, with one group receiving collections of dog bones (anywhere from one to five or higher) and the other group receiving number flashcards. Support children as they move around the room to find their matching partner, celebrating each successful match. Conclude by gathering everyone together to discuss the shapes they observed in the bones and flashcards, noting differences in size and attributes.

Educator tip

Consider laminating the dog bones for durability and adding tactile elements (felt, sandpaper) for sensory exploration.

Assessment

Observe student participation throughout each step, noting their ability to count in sequence, demonstrate one-to-one correspondence, and collaborate with peers during the matching activity.

More from Pets

• Pet Shapes Exploration
• Pet Patterns
• Pet Families in Order
• My Perfect Pet
• Paw Print Art
• My Pet House
• Pocket Pet Puppet
• Pet Store Signs