Reception Maths – Autumn Block 4: 1, 2, 3

Developing a deep understanding of numbers starts with the basics, and Autumn Block 4: 1, 2, 3 is designed to give Reception pupils a strong foundation in early number sense. This unit introduces numbers 1, 2, and 3 in a structured way, helping pupils to recognise, subitise, compare, and explore their composition. Through engaging, hands-on activities, pupils will develop confidence in recognising and working with small quantities, setting the groundwork for future number fluency.

Week 7: Identifying, Subitising, and Representing 1, 2, 3
This week focuses on helping pupils to recognise, name, and understand numbers 1, 2, and 3 in different contexts.

– Identify 1, 2, 3: Pupils will explore these numbers through real-life objects, number tracks, and counting activities, helping them to link numerals to quantities.
– Subitise 1, 2, 3: Pupils will practise recognising small quantities without counting, using dot patterns, five frames, and familiar arrangements such as dice faces.
– Represent 1, 2, 3: Pupils will explore different ways to show these numbers, including drawing, using concrete resources, and arranging objects in structured patterns.

By the end of the week, pupils will have a secure understanding of what these numbers look like and how they relate to everyday experiences.

Week 8: One More, One Less, and Composition of 1, 2, 3
With a firm grasp of recognising and representing small numbers, pupils will now start to explore how they relate to each other.

– 1 More: Pupils will investigate how adding one increases a number, using practical activities such as counting objects, adding counters, and number tracks.
– 1 Less: Pupils will explore what happens when one is taken away, reinforcing early subtraction concepts and building number sense.
– Composition of 1, 2, 3: Pupils will begin to understand how numbers are made up of smaller parts, for example, how 3 can be made from 2 and 1, or how 2 can be split into 1 and 1.

This step-by-step approach encourages mathematical thinking, helping pupils to see numbers as flexible and connected rather than just symbols to be memorised.

Meeting the Early Learning Goals (ELG)
This unit is carefully designed to support pupils in working towards the Early Learning Goals (ELG) for mathematics:

Subitise up to 5: Pupils will develop instant recognition of small quantities, a key skill for number fluency.

Deep understanding of numbers to 10: By exploring the composition of 1, 2, and 3, pupils begin to build a strong foundation for understanding larger numbers and mathematical relationships.

Why This Unit Matters
Early number work is about more than just counting. This unit helps pupils to see numbers in a meaningful way, building fluency, confidence, and problem-solving skills. With engaging activities, clear progression, and plenty of opportunities for discussion, pupils will develop the essential number skills they need for a successful start in maths.