Mathematics

Grade One

Interim Edition

Curriculum Guide
September 2009
 TABLE OF Contents

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements…………..…………………….……………...................................…iii
Foreword……...…………………………………………..……………….....................................v
Background…….….....……………………………………..………...................................…….1
Introduction
Purpose of the Document……………………………………….......................................……….2
Beliefs About Students and Mathematics Learning………………....................................…….2
Affective Domain………………………………………………..........................................……….3
Early Childhood…………………………………………………..........................................………3
Goal for Students………………………………………………….........................................……..4
Conceptual Framework for K–9 Mathematics..........................................4
Mathematical Processes……….....……………………….…………..........................................5
Nature of Mathematics………….....………………………………......................................…….9
Strands………....………………………………………..…………..............................................12
Outcomes and Achievement Indicators………....………………………...................................13
Summary………….....……………………………………………...........................................….13
Instructional Focus
Planning for Instruction………………………………………..........................................….…. 14
Resources…………………………………………………………................................................14
Teaching Sequence………………………………………………….........................................….15
Instruction Time per Unit……………….....………….....…………........................................…15
General and Specific Outcomes..........................................................................16
General and Specific Outcomes by Strand K - 2..................................17
Representing Numbers to 20..…………….....….…………….................................................29
Patterning...........……………………………………………….…...............................................73
Addition and Subtraction to 12…………………………….…............................................……85
Measurement ……………………………….……..……......................................….....………113
Numbers to 100..……………………………………….………................................................125
Addition and Subtraction to 20…………………………………..............................................135
Geometry ..……………………….…………………………….................................................149

Appendix A: Outcomes with Achievement Indicators (Strand)…....161

References……...........................……………....……………….....................................…....169

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 

ii Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim
 acknowledgements

Acknowledgements
The Department of Education would like to thank Western and Northern Canadian Protocol (WNCP)
for Collaboration in Education, The Common Curriculum Framework for K-9 Mathematics - May 2006 and
The Common Curriculum Framework for Grades 10-12 - January 2008. Reproduced (and/or adapted) by
permission. All rights reserved.
We would also like to thank the provincial Grade 1 Mathematics curriculum committee, the Alberta
Department of Education, the New Brunswick Department of Education, and the following people for their
contribution:
Trudy Porter, Program Development Specialist – Mathematics, Division
of Program Development, Department of Education

Theresa Bryant, Numeracy Support Teacher – Eastern School District

Valerie Fleming, Teacher – Upper Gullies Elementary,

Conception Bay South

Karen Keough, Teacher – Roncolli, St. John’s

Nancy Pelley, Teacher – Upper Gullies Elementary,

Conception Bay South

Lois Petten, Teacher – Numeracy Support Teacher, Eastern School

District

Colleen Ryan, Teacher – Stephenville Primary,

Stephenville

Patricia Maxwell – Program Development Specialist – Mathematics,

Division of Program Development, Department of Education

Rita Kennedy, Teacher – St. Francis of Assisi, St. John’s

Laura Feltham, Teacher – Cowan Heights Elementary, St. John’s

Ruth Power-Blackmore, Teacher – Larkhall Academy, St. John’s

Every effort has been made to acknowledge all sources that contributed to the development of this document.
Any omissions or errors will be amended in final print.

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim iii

iv Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim
 foreword

Foreword
The Curriculum Focal Points for Prekindergarten through Grade 8
Mathematics released in 2006 by the National Council of Teachers
in Mathematics (NCTM) and the WNCP Common Curriculum
Frameworks for Mathematics K – 9 (WNCP, 2006), assists many
provinces in developing a mathematics curriculum framework.
Newfoundland and Labrador has used this curriculum framework to
direct the development of this curriculum guide.

This curriculum guide is intended to provide teachers with the

overview of the outcomes framework for mathematics education. It also
includes suggestions to assist teachers in designing learning experiences
and assessment tasks.

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 

vi Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim
 Introduction

BACKGROUND The province of Newfoundland and Labrador commissioned an

independent review of mathematics curriculum in the summer of 2007.
This review resulted in a number of significant recommendations.
In March of 2008, it was announced that this province accepted
all recommendations. The first and perhaps most significiant of the
recommendations were as follows:
• That the WNCP Common Curriculum Frameworks for
Mathematics K – 9 and Mathematics 10 – 12 (WNCP, 2006 and
2008) be adopted as the basis for the K – 12 mathematics curriculum
in this province.
• That implementation commence with Grades K, 1, 4, 7 in
September 2008, followed by in Grades 2, 5, 8 in 2009 and Grades
3, 6, 9 in 2010.
• That textbooks and other resources specifically designed to match the
WNCP frameworks be adopted as an integral part of the proposed
program change.
• That implementation be accompanied by an introductory
professional development program designed to introduce the
curriculum to all mathematics teachers at the appropriate grade levels
prior to the first year of implementation.
As recommended, the implementation schedule for K-6 mathematics is
as follows:

Implementation Year Grade Level
2008 K, 1 and 4
2009 2, 5
2010 3, 6

All teachers assigned to these grades will receive professional development

opportunities related to the new curriculum and resources.

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

Purpose of the The Mathematics Curriculum Guides for Newfoundland and Labrador
have been derived from The Common Curriculum Framework for K–9
Document Mathematics: Western and Northern Canadian Protocol, May 2006
(the Common Curriculum Framework). These guides incorporate the
The curriculum guide conceptual framework for Kindergarten to Grade 9 Mathematics and
communicates high the general outcomes, specific outcomes and achievement indicators
expectations for students. established in the common curriculum framework. They also include
suggestions for teaching and learning, suggested assessment strategies,
and an identification of the associated resource match between the
curriculum and authorized, as well as recommended, resource materials.

Beliefs About Students are curious, active learners with individual interests, abilities
and needs. They come to classrooms with varying knowledge, life
Students and experiences and backgrounds. A key component in successfully
Mathematics developing numeracy is making connections to these backgrounds and
experiences.
Learning
Students learn by attaching meaning to what they do, and they need
to construct their own meaning of mathematics. This meaning is best
Mathematical developed when learners encounter mathematical experiences that
understanding is fostered proceed from the simple to the complex and from the concrete to the
when students build on abstract. Through the use of manipulatives and a variety of pedagogical
their own experiences and approaches, teachers can address the diverse learning styles, cultural
prior knowledge. backgrounds and developmental stages of students, and enhance
within them the formation of sound, transferable mathematical
understandings. At all levels, students benefit from working with a
variety of materials, tools and contexts when constructing meaning
about new mathematical ideas. Meaningful student discussions provide
essential links among concrete, pictorial and symbolic representations
of mathematical concepts.
The learning environment should value and respect the diversity
of students’ experiences and ways of thinking, so that students are
comfortable taking intellectual risks, asking questions and posing
conjectures. Students need to explore problem-solving situations in
order to develop personal strategies and become mathematically literate.
They must realize that it is acceptable to solve problems in a variety of
ways and that a variety of solutions may be acceptable.

 Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

 introduction

Affective Domain A positive attitude is an important aspect of the affective domain and
has a profound impact on learning. Environments that create a sense of
belonging, encourage risk taking and provide opportunities for success
help develop and maintain positive attitudes and self-confidence within
To experience success, students. Students with positive attitudes toward learning mathematics
students must be taught are likely to be motivated and prepared to learn, participate willingly
to set achievable goals and in classroom activities, persist in challenging situations and engage in
assess themselves as they reflective practices.
work toward these goals. Teachers, students and parents need to recognize the relationship
between the affective and cognitive domains, and attempt to nurture
those aspects of the affective domain that contribute to positive
attitudes. To experience success, students must be taught to set
achievable goals and assess themselves as they work toward these goals.
Striving toward success and becoming autonomous and responsible
learners are ongoing, reflective processes that involve revisiting the
setting and assessing of personal goals.

Early Childhood Young children are naturally curious and develop a variety of
mathematical ideas before they enter Kindergarten. Children make
sense of their environment through observations and interactions at
home, in daycares, in preschools and in the community. Mathematics
learning is embedded in everyday activities, such as playing, reading,
Curiosity about mathematics beading, baking, storytelling and helping around the home.
is fostered when children Activities can contribute to the development of number and spatial
are actively engaged in their sense in children. Curiosity about mathematics is fostered when
environment. children are engaged in, and talking about, such activities as comparing
quantities, searching for patterns, sorting objects, ordering objects,
creating designs and building with blocks.
Positive early experiences in mathematics are as critical to child
development as are early literacy experiences.

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 

introduction

The main goals of mathematics education are to prepare students to:

Goals For
• use mathematics confidently to solve problems
Students
• communicate and reason mathematically
• appreciate and value mathematics
• make connections between mathematics and its applications
• commit themselves to lifelong learning
• become mathematically literate adults, using mathematics to
Mathematics education
contribute to society.
must prepare students
to use mathematics Students who have met these goals will:
confidently to solve • gain understanding and appreciation of the contributions of
problems. mathematics as a science, philosophy and art
• exhibit a positive attitude toward mathematics
• engage and persevere in mathematical tasks and projects
• contribute to mathematical discussions
• take risks in performing mathematical tasks
• exhibit curiosity.

CONCEPTUAL The chart below provides an overview of how mathematical processes

FRAMEWORK and the nature of mathematics influence learning outcomes.
FOR K-9
MATHEMATICS

 Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

 PROCESS STANDARDS

MATHEMATICAL There are critical components that students must encounter in a

PROCESSES mathematics program in order to achieve the goals of mathematics
education and embrace lifelong learning in mathematics.
Students are expected to:

• Communication [C] • communicate in order to learn and express their understanding

• Connections [CN] • connect mathematical ideas to other concepts in mathematics, to

everyday experiences and to other disciplines
• Mental Mathematics
and Estimation [ME] • demonstrate fluency with mental mathematics and estimation

• Problem Solving [PS] • develop and apply new mathematical knowledge through problem
solving
• Reasoning [R]
• develop mathematical reasoning
• Technology [T]
• select and use technologies as tools for learning and for solving
• Visualization [V] problems
• develop visualization skills to assist in processing information,
making connections and solving problems.
The program of studies incorporates these seven interrelated
mathematical processes that are intended to permeate teaching and
learning.

Communication [C] Students need opportunities to read about, represent, view, write about,
listen to and discuss mathematical ideas. These opportunities allow
students to create links between their own language and ideas, and the
formal language and symbols of mathematics.
Communication is important in clarifying, reinforcing and modifying
Students must be able to ideas, attitudes and beliefs about mathematics. Students should be
communicate mathematical encouraged to use a variety of forms of communication while learning
ideas in a variety of ways mathematics. Students also need to communicate their learning using
and contexts. mathematical terminology.
Communication helps students make connections among concrete,
pictorial, symbolic, oral, written and mental representations of
mathematical ideas.

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 

process standards

Connections [CN] Contextualization and making connections to the experiences

of learners are powerful processes in developing mathematical
understanding. This can be particularly true for First Nations, Métis
and Inuit learners. When mathematical ideas are connected to each
other or to real-world phenomena, students begin to view mathematics
Through connections,
as useful, relevant and integrated.
students begin to view
mathematics as useful and Learning mathematics within contexts and making connections relevant
relevant. to learners can validate past experiences and increase student willingness
to participate and be actively engaged.
The brain is constantly looking for and making connections. “Because
the learner is constantly searching for connections on many levels,
educators need to orchestrate the experiences from which learners extract
understanding.… Brain research establishes and confirms that multiple
complex and concrete experiences are essential for meaningful learning
and teaching” (Caine and Caine, 1991, p.5).

Mental Mathematics and Mental mathematics is a combination of cognitive strategies that

Estimation [ME] enhance flexible thinking and number sense. It is calculating mentally
without the use of external memory aids.
Mental mathematics enables students to determine answers without
paper and pencil. It improves computational fluency by developing
efficiency, accuracy and flexibility.
“Even more important than performing computational procedures or
using calculators is the greater facility that students need—more than
Mental mathematics and ever before—with estimation and mental math” (National Council of
estimation are fundamental Teachers of Mathematics, May 2005).
components of number sense. Students proficient with mental mathematics “become liberated from
calculator dependence, build confidence in doing mathematics, become
more flexible thinkers and are more able to use multiple approaches to
problem solving” (Rubenstein, 2001, p. 442).
Mental mathematics “provides the cornerstone for all estimation
processes, offering a variety of alternative algorithms and nonstandard
techniques for finding answers” (Hope, 1988, p. v).
Estimation is used for determining approximate values or quantities or
for determining the reasonableness of calculated values. It often uses
benchmarks or referents. Students need to know when to estimate, how
to estimate and what strategy to use.
Estimation assists individuals in making mathematical judgements and
in developing useful, efficient strategies for dealing with situations in
daily life.

 Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

 process standards

Problem Solving [PS] Learning through problem solving should be the focus of mathematics
at all grade levels. When students encounter new situations and
respond to questions of the type How would you? or How could you?,
the problem-solving approach is being modelled. Students develop their
own problem-solving strategies by listening to, discussing and trying
different strategies.
Learning through problem
solving should be the focus A problem-solving activity must ask students to determine a way to get
of mathematics at all grade from what is known to what is sought. If students have already been
levels. given ways to solve the problem, it is not a problem, but practice. A
true problem requires students to use prior learnings in new ways and
contexts. Problem solving requires and builds depth of conceptual
understanding and student engagement.
Problem solving is a powerful teaching tool that fosters multiple,
creative and innovative solutions. Creating an environment where
students openly look for, and engage in, finding a variety of strategies
for solving problems empowers students to explore alternatives and
develops confident, cognitive mathematical risk takers.

Reasoning [R] Mathematical reasoning helps students think logically and make sense
of mathematics. Students need to develop confidence in their abilities to
reason and justify their mathematical thinking. High-order questions
challenge students to think and develop a sense of wonder about
Mathematical reasoning mathematics.
helps students think Mathematical experiences in and out of the classroom provide
logically and make sense of opportunities for students to develop their ability to reason. Students
mathematics. can explore and record results, analyze observations, make and test
generalizations from patterns, and reach new conclusions by building
upon what is already known or assumed to be true.
Reasoning skills allow students to use a logical process to analyze a
problem, reach a conclusion and justify or defend that conclusion.

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 

process standards

Technology [T] Technology contributes to the learning of a wide range of mathematical

outcomes and enables students to explore and create patterns, examine
relationships, test conjectures and solve problems.
Calculators and computers can be used to:
Technology contributes
to the learning of a wide • explore and demonstrate mathematical relationships and patterns
range of mathematical • organize and display data
outcomes and enables
• extrapolate and interpolate
students to explore
and create patterns, • assist with calculation procedures as part of solving problems
examine relationships, • decrease the time spent on computations when other mathematical
test conjectures and solve learning is the focus
problems.
• reinforce the learning of basic facts
• develop personal procedures for mathematical operations
• create geometric patterns
• simulate situations
• develop number sense.
Technology contributes to a learning environment in which the
growing curiosity of students can lead to rich mathematical discoveries
at all grade levels.

Visualization [V] Visualization “involves thinking in pictures and images, and the ability
to perceive, transform and recreate different aspects of the visual-spatial
world” (Armstrong, 1993, p. 10). The use of visualization in the study
of mathematics provides students with opportunities to understand
mathematical concepts and make connections among them.
Visualization is fostered
Visual images and visual reasoning are important components of
through the use of concrete
number, spatial and measurement sense. Number visualization occurs
materials, technology
when students create mental representations of numbers.
and a variety of visual
representations. Being able to create, interpret and describe a visual representation is
part of spatial sense and spatial reasoning. Spatial visualization and
reasoning enable students to describe the relationships among and
between 3-D objects and 2-D shapes.
Measurement visualization goes beyond the acquisition of specific
measurement skills. Measurement sense includes the ability to
determine when to measure, when to estimate and which estimation
strategies to use (Shaw and Cliatt, 1989).

 Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

 nature of mathematics

NATURE OF Mathematics is one way of trying to understand, interpret and describe

MATHEMATICS our world. There are a number of components that define the nature of
mathematics and these are woven throughout this program of studies.
• Change
The components are change, constancy, number sense, patterns,
• Constancy relationships, spatial sense and uncertainty.
• Number Sense
• Patterns
• Relationships
• Spatial Sense
• Uncertainty

Change It is important for students to understand that mathematics is dynamic

and not static. As a result, recognizing change is a key component in
understanding and developing mathematics.
Within mathematics, students encounter conditions of change and are
required to search for explanations of that change. To make predictions,
Change is an integral part students need to describe and quantify their observations, look for
of mathematics and the patterns, and describe those quantities that remain fixed and those that
learning of mathematics. change. For example, the sequence 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, … can be described
as:
• the number of a specific colour of beads in each row of a beaded
design
• skip counting by 2s, starting from 4
• an arithmetic sequence, with first term 4 and a common difference
of 2
• a linear function with a discrete domain
(Steen, 1990, p. 184).

Constancy Different aspects of constancy are described by the terms stability,

conservation, equilibrium, steady state and symmetry (AAAS–
Benchmarks, 1993, p. 270). Many important properties in mathematics
and science relate to properties that do not change when outside
Constancy is described by the conditions change. Examples of constancy include the following:
terms stability, conservation, • The ratio of the circumference of a teepee to its diameter is the
equilibrium, steady state and same regardless of the length of the teepee poles.
symmetry.
• The sum of the interior angles of any triangle is 180°.
• The theoretical probability of flipping a coin and getting heads is
0.5.
Some problems in mathematics require students to focus on properties
that remain constant. The recognition of constancy enables students to
solve problems involving constant rates of change, lines with constant
slope, direct variation situations or the angle sums of polygons.

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 

nature of mathematics

Number Sense Number sense, which can be thought of as intuition about numbers,
is the most important foundation of numeracy (British Columbia
Ministry of Education, 2000, p. 146).
A true sense of number goes well beyond the skills of simply counting,
memorizing facts and the situational rote use of algorithms. Mastery
An intuition about number of number facts is expected to be attained by students as they develop
is the most important their number sense. This mastery allows for facility with more
foundation of a numerate complex computations but should not be attained at the expense of an
child. understanding of number.
Number sense develops when students connect numbers to their own
real-life experiences and when students use benchmarks and referents.
This results in students who are computationally fluent and flexible
with numbers and who have intuition about numbers. The evolving
number sense typically comes as a by product of learning rather than
through direct instruction. However, number sense can be developed
by providing rich mathematical tasks that allow students to make
connections to their own experiences and their previous learning.

Patterns Mathematics is about recognizing, describing and working with

numerical and non-numerical patterns. Patterns exist in all strands of
this program of studies.
Working with patterns enables students to make connections within
Mathematics is about
and beyond mathematics. These skills contribute to students’
recognizing, describing and
interaction with, and understanding of, their environment.
working with numerical
and non-numerical Patterns may be represented in concrete, visual or symbolic form.
patterns. Students should develop fluency in moving from one representation to
another.
Students must learn to recognize, extend, create and use mathematical
patterns. Patterns allow students to make predictions and justify their
reasoning when solving routine and nonroutine problems.
Learning to work with patterns in the early grades helps students
develop algebraic thinking, which is foundational for working with
more abstract mathematics in higher grades.

10 Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

 nature of mathematics

Relationships Mathematics is one way to describe interconnectedness in a holistic

worldview. Mathematics is used to describe and explain relationships.
As part of the study of mathematics, students look for relationships
Mathematics is used to
among numbers, sets, shapes, objects and concepts. The search for
describe and explain
possible relationships involves collecting and analyzing data and
relationships.
describing relationships visually, symbolically, orally or in written form.

Spatial Sense Spatial sense involves visualization, mental imagery and spatial
reasoning. These skills are central to the understanding of mathematics.
Spatial sense is developed through a variety of experiences and
interactions within the environment. The development of spatial sense
enables students to solve problems involving 3-D objects and 2-D
Spatial sense offers a way to shapes and to interpret and reflect on the physical environment and its
interpret and reflect on the 3-D or 2-D representations.
physical environment. Some problems involve attaching numerals and appropriate units
(measurement) to dimensions of shapes and objects. Spatial sense
allows students to make predictions about the results of changing these
dimensions; e.g., doubling the length of the side of a square increases
the area by a factor of four. Ultimately, spatial sense enables students
to communicate about shapes and objects and to create their own
representations.

Uncertainty In mathematics, interpretations of data and the predictions made from

data may lack certainty.
Events and experiments generate statistical data that can be used to
make predictions. It is important to recognize that these predictions
(interpolations and extrapolations) are based upon patterns that have a
Uncertainty is an inherent degree of uncertainty.
part of making predictions. The quality of the interpretation is directly related to the quality of
the data. An awareness of uncertainty allows students to assess the
reliability of data and data interpretation.
Chance addresses the predictability of the occurrence of an outcome.
As students develop their understanding of probability, the language
of mathematics becomes more specific and describes the degree of
uncertainty more accurately.

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 11

strands

STRANDS The learning outcomes in the program of studies are organized into
four strands across the grades K–9. Some strands are subdivided into
• Number substrands. There is one general outcome per substrand across the
• Patterns and Relations grades K–9.

• Shape and Space The strands and substrands, including the general outcome for each,
• Statistics and follow.
Probability

Number Number
• Develop number sense.

Patterns and Relations Patterns

• Use patterns to describe the world and to solve problems.

Variables and Equations

• Represent algebraic expressions in multiple ways.

Shape and Space Measurement

• Use direct and indirect measurement to solve problems.

3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes

• Describe the characteristics of 3-D objects and 2-D shapes, and
analyze the relationships among them.

Transformations
• Describe and analyze position and motion of objects and shapes.

Statistics and Probability Data Analysis

• Collect, display and analyze data to solve problems.

Chance and Uncertainty

• Use experimental or theoretical probabilities to represent and solve
problems involving uncertainty.

12 Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

 outcomes

OUTCOMES AND The program of studies is stated in terms of general outcomes, specific
ACHIEVEMENT outcomes and achievement indicators.
INDICATORS

General outcomes are overarching statements about what students are

General Outcomes expected to learn in each strand/substrand. The general outcome for
each strand/substrand is the same throughout the grades.

Specific outcomes are statements that identify the specific skills,

Specific Outcomes understanding and knowledge that students are required to attain by
the end of a given grade.

In the specific outcomes, the word including indicates that any ensuing
items must be addressed to fully meet the learning outcome. The phrase
such as indicates that the ensuing items are provided for illustrative
purposes or clarification, and are not requirements that must be
addressed to fully meet the learning outcome.

Achievement Indicators Achievement indicators are samples of how students may demonstrate
their achievement of the goals of a specific outcome. The range of
samples provided is meant to reflect the scope of the specific outcome.
Achievement indicators are context-free.

SUMMARY The conceptual framework for K–9 mathematics describes the nature
of mathematics, mathematical processes and the mathematical concepts
to be addressed in Kindergarten to Grade 9 mathematics. The
components are not meant to stand alone. Activities that take place
in the mathematics classroom should stem from a problem-solving
approach, be based on mathematical processes and lead students
to an understanding of the nature of mathematics through specific
knowledge, skills and attitudes among and between strands.

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 13

instructional focus

INSTRUCTIONAL
FOCUS

Planning for Instruction Consider the following when planning for instruction:
• Integration of the mathematical processes within each strand is
expected.
• By decreasing emphasis on rote calculation, drill and practice, and the
size of numbers used in paper and pencil calculations, more time is
available for concept development.
• Problem solving, reasoning and connections are vital to increasing
mathematical fluency and must be integrated throughout the
program.
• There is to be a balance among mental mathematics and estimation,
paper and pencil exercises, and the use of technology, including
calculators and computers. Concepts should be introduced
using manipulatives and be developed concretely, pictorially and
symbolically.
• Students bring a diversity of learning styles and cultural backgrounds
to the classroom. They will be at varying developmental stages.

Resources The resource selected by Newfoundland and Labrador for students and
teachers is Math Makes Sense 1 (Pearson). Schools and teachers have
this as their primary resource offered by the Department of Education.
Column four of the curriculum guide references Math Makes Sense 1 for
this reason.
Teachers may use any resource or combination of resources to meet the
required specific outcomes listed in column one of the curriculum guide.

14 Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

 instructional focus

Teaching Sequence The curriculum guide for Grade 1 is organized by units from Unit 1 to
Unit 7. The purpose of this timeline is to assist in planning. The use of
this timeline is not mandatory; however, it is mandtory that all outcomes
are taught during the school year so a long term plan is advised. There
are a number of combinations of sequences that would be appropriate for
teaching this course. The arrow showing ‘estimated focus’ does not mean
the outcomes are never addressed again. The teaching of the outcomes is
ongoing and may be revisited as necessary.

Instruction Time Per Unit The suggested number of weeks of instruction per unit is listed in the
guide at the beginning of each unit. The number of suggested weeks
includes time for completing assessment activities, reviewing and
evaluating.

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 15

 general and specific outcomes

GENERAL GENERAL AND SPECIFIC OUTCOMES BY STRAND

AND SPECIFIC (pages 17–28)
OUTCOMES
This section presents the general and specific outcomes for each strand,
for Kindergarten, Grade 1 and 2.
Refer to Appendix A for the general and specific outcomes with
corresponding achievement indicators organized by strand for Grade 1.

GENERAL AND SPECIFIC OUTCOMES WITH ACHIEVEMENT

INDICATORS (beginning at page 29)
This section presents general and specific outcomes with corresponding
achievement indicators and is organized by unit. The list of indicators
contained in this section is not intended to be exhaustive but rather to
provide teachers with examples of evidence of understanding to be used
to determine whether or not students have achieved a given specific
outcome. Teachers should use these indicators but other indicators
may be added as evidence that the desired learning has been achieved.
Achievement indicators should also help teachers form a clear picture of
the intent and scope of each specific outcome.

16 Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

GENERAL AND SPECIFIC OUTCOMES BY
STRAND

(Kindergarten, Grades 1 and 2)

grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim 17

general and specific outcomes by strand

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Number

Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2

General Outcome General Outcome General Outcome
Develop number sense. Develop number sense. Develop number sense.
Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes
1. Say the number sequence by 1s: 1. Say the number sequence 0 to 1. Say the number sequence 0 to
- starting anywhere from 1 to 10 100 by: 100 by:
and from 10 to 1. • 1s forward between any two • 2s, 5s and 10s, forward and
- forward from 1 to 30 given numbers backward, using starting points
[C, CN, V] • 1s backward from 20 to 0 that are multiples of 2, 5 and 10
• 2s forward from 0 to 20 respectively
2. Subitize (recognize at a glance) • 5s and 10s forward from 0 to • 10s, using starting points from
and name familiar arrangements 100. 1 to 9
of 1 to 6 objects, dots or pictures. [C, CN, ME, V] • 2s, starting from 1.
[C, CN, ME, V] [C, CN, ME, R]
2. Subitize (recognize at a glance)
3. Relate a numeral, 1 to 10, to its and name familiar arrangements 2. Demonstrate if a number (up to
respective quantity. of 1 to 10 objects or dots. 100) is even or odd.
[CN, R, V] [C, CN, ME, V] [C, CN, PS, R]

4. Represent and describe 3. Demonstrate an understanding 3. Describe order or relative

numbers 2 to 10, in two parts, of counting by: position, using ordinal numbers
concretely and pictorially. • indicating that the last number (up to tenth).
[C, CN, ME, R, V] said identifies “how many” [C, CN, R]
• showing that any set has only
5. Compare quantities 1 to 10, one count 4. Represent and describe
- using one-to-one • using the counting-on strategy numbers to 100, concretely,
correspondence • using parts or equal groups to pictorially and symbolically.
- by ordering numbers count sets. [C, CN, V]
representing different [C, CN, ME, R, V]
quantities
[C, CN, V]

18 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 general and specific outcomes by strand

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Number

Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2

General Outcome General Outcome General Outcome
Develop number sense. Develop number sense. Develop number sense.
Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes
4. Represent and describe 5. Compare and order numbers
numbers to 20, concretely, up to 100.
pictorially and symbolically. [C, CN, ME, R, V]
[C, CN, V]
6. Estimate quantities to 100,
5. Compare sets containing up to using referents.
20 elements, using: [C, ME, PS, R]
• referents
• one-to-one correspondence 7. Illustrate, concretely and
to solve problems. pictorially, the meaning of place
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V] value for numerals to 100.
[C, CN, R, V]
6. Estimate quantities to 20 by
using referents. 8. Demonstrate and explain
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V] the effect of adding zero to,
or subtracting zero from, any
7. (No Outcome) number.
[C, R]
8. Identify the number, up to 20,
that is:
• one more
• two more
• one less
• two less
than a given number.
[C, CN, ME, R, V]

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - Interim 19

general and specific outcomes by strand

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Number

Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2

General Outcome General Outcome General Outcome
Develop number sense. Develop number sense. Develop number sense.
Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes
9. Demonstrate an understanding 9. Demonstrate an understanding
of addition of numbers with of addition (limited to 1- and
answers to 20 and their 2-digit numerals) with answers
corresponding subtraction to 100 and the corresponding
facts, concretely, pictorially and subtraction by:
symbolically, by: • using personal strategies for
• using familiar mathematical adding and subtracting with
language to describe additive and without the support of
and subtractive actions manipulatives
• creating and solving problems • creating and solving problems
in context that involve addition that involve addition and
and subtraction subtraction
• modelling addition and • using the commutative
subtraction, using a variety property of addition (the order
of concrete and visual in which numbers are added
representations, and recording does not affect the sum)
the process symbolically. • using the associative property
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V] of addition (grouping a set of
numbers in different ways does
not affect the sum)
• explaining that the order in
which numbers are subtracted
may affect the difference.
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]

20 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 general and specific outcomes by strand

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Number

Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2

General Outcome General Outcome General Outcome
Develop number sense. Develop number sense. Develop number sense.
Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes
10. Describe and use mental 10. Apply mental mathematics
mathematics strategies strategies, such as:
(memorization not intended), • counting on and counting
such as: back
• counting on and counting • making 10
back • using doubles
• making 10 • using addition to subtract
• using doubles for basic addition facts and related
• thinking addition for subtraction facts
subtraction to 18.
for basic addition facts and [C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]
related subtraction facts to 18.
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - Interim 21

general and specific outcomes by strand

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Patterns and Relations

(Patterns)

Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2

General Outcome General Outcome General Outcome
Use patterns to describe the Use patterns to describe the Use patterns to describe the
world and to solve problems. world and to solve problems. world and to solve problems.
Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes
1. Demonstrate an understanding 1. Demonstrate an understanding 1. Demonstrate an understanding
of repeating patterns (two or three of repeating patterns (two to four of repeating patterns (three to five
elements) by: elements) by: elements) by:
• identifying • describing • describing
• reproducing • reproducing • extending
• extending • extending • comparing
• creating • creating • creating
patterns using manipulatives, patterns using manipulatives, patterns using manipulatives,
sounds and actions. diagrams, sounds and actions. diagrams, sounds and actions.
[C, CN, PS, V] [C, PS, R, V] [C, CN, PS, R, V]

2. Translate repeating patterns 2. Demonstrate an understanding

from one representation to of increasing patterns by:
another. • describing
[C, CN, R, V] • reproducing
• extending
3. Sort objects, using one • creating
attribute, and explain the sorting patterns using manipulatives,
rule. diagrams, sounds and actions
[C, CN, R, V] (numbers to 100).
[C, CN, PS, R, V]

22 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 general and specific outcomes by strand

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Patterns and Relations

(Variables and Equations)

Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2

General Outcome General Outcome General Outcome
Use patterns to describe the Use patterns to describe the Use patterns to describe the
world and to solve problems. world and to solve problems. world and to solve problems.
Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes
4. Describe equality as a balance 3. Demonstrate and explain the
and inequality as an imbalance, meaning of equality by using
concretely and pictorially (0 to manipulatives and diagrams
20). (0 – 100)
[C, CN, R, V] [C, CN, R, V]

5. Record equalities, using the 4. Record equalities and

equal symbol. inequalities symbolically, using
[C, CN, PS, V] the equal symbol or the not equal
symbol.
[C, CN, R, V]

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - Interim 23

general and specific outcomes by strand

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Shape and Space

(Measurement)

Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2

General Outcome General Outcome General Outcome
Use direct or indirect Use direct or indirect Use direct or indirect
measurement to solve problems. measurement to solve problems. measurement to solve problems.
Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes
1. Use direct comparison to 1. Demonstrate an understanding 1. Relate the number of days to a
compare two objects based on a of measurement as a process of week and the number of months
single attribute, such as - length comparing by: to a year in a problem-solving
including height • identifying attributes that can context.
- mass be compared [C, CN, PS, R]
- capacity • ordering objects
[C, CN, PS, R, V] • making statements of 2. Relate the size of a unit of
comparison measure to the number of units
• filling, covering or matching. (limited to nonstandard units)
[C, CN, PS, R, V] used to measure length and mass .
[C, CN, ME, R, V]

3. Compare and order objects by

length, height, distance around
and mass, using nonstandard
units, and make statements of
comparison.
[C, CN, ME, R, V]

4. Measure length to the nearest

nonstandard unit by:
• using multiple copies of a unit
• using a single copy of a unit
(iteration process).
[C, ME, R, V]

24 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 general and specific outcomes by strand

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Shape and Space

(Measurement)

Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2

General Outcome General Outcome General Outcome
Use direct or indirect Use direct or indirect Use direct or indirect
measurement to solve problems. measurement to solve problems. measurement to solve problems.
Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes
5. Demonstrate that changing
the orientation of an object does
not alter the measurements of its
attributes.
[C, R, V]

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - Interim 25

general and specific outcomes by strand

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Shape and Space

(3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes)

Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2

General Outcome General Outcome General Outcome
Describe the characteristics of Describe the characteristics of Describe the characteristics of
3-D objects and 2-D shapes, and 3-D objects and 2-D shapes, and 3-D objects and 2-D shapes, and
analyze the relationships among analyze the relationships among analyze the relationships among
them. them. them.
Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes
2. Sort objects, including 3-D 2. Sort 3-D objects and 2-D 6. Sort 2-D shapes and 3-D
objects, using a single attribute shapes, using one attribute, and objects, using two attributes, and
and explain the sorting rule. explain the sorting rule. explain the sorting rule.
[C, CN, PS, R, V] [C, CN, R, V] [C, CN, R, V]

3. Build and describe 3-D objects. 3. Replicate composite 2-D shapes 7. Describe, compare and
[CN, PS, V] and 3-D objects. construct 3-D objects, including:
[CN, PS, V] • cubes
• spheres
4. Compare 2-D shapes to parts of • cones
3-D objects in the environment. • cylinders
[C, CN, V] • pyramids.
[C, CN, R, V]

8. Describe, compare and

construct 2-D shapes, including:
• triangles
• squares
• rectangles
• circles.
[C, CN, R, V]

9. Identify 2-D shapes as parts of

3-D objects in the environment.
[C, CN, R, V]

26 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 general and specific outcomes by strand

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Statistics and Probability

(Data Analysis)

Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2

General Outcome General Outcome General Outcome
Collect, display and analyze data Collect, display and analyze data Collect, display and analyze data
to solve problems. to solve problems. to solve problems.
Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes Specific Outcomes
1. Gather and record data
about self and others to answer
questions.
[C, CN, PS, V]

2. Construct and interpret

concrete graphs and pictographs
to solve problems.
[C, CN, PS, R, V]

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - Interim 27

28 Grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim
Representing Numbers to 20

Suggested Time: 7 Weeks

This is the first explicit focus on numbers to 20, but as with other outcomes,
it is ongoing throughout the year.
REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Unit Overview
Focus and Context In Kindergarten, number concepts were explored while focusing
numbers 1 to 10. An understanding of the number combinations to
10 is critical in building a strong mathematics foundation. If students
are to develop strong number concepts and number sense, considerable
instructional time must be devoted to number and numeration. In
Grade One, students will be provided with meaningful experiences
using numbers to 20 and later in the year they will be introduced to
numbers to 100. In this unit, sufficient time must be given for students
to deepen their understanding first of the numbers to 10 and then to
20. Students will learn and practice skills for counting, estimating and
grouping objects into sets. There will be a focus on developing the
part-part-whole relationship of numbers to 20. It is important that
students experience activities using a variety of manipulative such as ten
frames, number lines, and snap cubes.

Math Connects Number concepts are an important link to the world around us.
Applying number relationships to the real world marks the beginning
of making sense of the world in a mathematical manner. Number sense
develops naturally when students connect numbers to their own life
experiences, and begin to use numbers as benchmarks and referents.
Students will develop multiple ways of thinking about and representing
numbers. Opportunities to explain their thinking and reasoning
through questions and discussion will strengthen their connections and
deepen their sense of number concepts.

30 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM

 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Process Standards [C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

Key [CN] Connections [R] Reasoning

[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Curriculum STRAND OUTCOME PROCESS

Outcomes STANDARDS
1N1 Say the number sequence 0 to 100 by:
• 1s forward between any two given
numbers
Number [C, CN, ME, V]
• 1s backward from 20 to 0
• 2s forward from 0 to 20
• 5s and 10s forward from 0 to 100.
1N2 Subitize (recognize at a glance) and
Number name familiar arrangements of 1 to 10 [C, CN, ME, V]
objects, dots or pictures.
1N3 Demonstrate an understanding of
counting by:
• indicating that the last number said
identifies “how many”
Number [C, CN, ME, R, V]
• showing that any set has only one count
• using the counting-on strategy
• using parts or equal groups to count
sets.
1N4 Represent and describe numbers to 20,
Number concretely, pictorially and symbolically. [C, CN, V]

1N5 Compare and order sets containing up

to 20 elements to solve problems, using:
Number • referents (known quantities) [C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]
• one-to-one correspondence
to solve problems.
1N6 Estimate quantities to 20 by using
Number [C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]
referents.
1N8 Identify the number, up to 20, that is
Number one more, two more, one less and two less [C, CN, ME, R, V]
than a given number.
Patterns and 1PR3 Describe equality as a balance and in-
Relations equality as an imbalance, concretely and
pictorially (0 to 20). [C, CN, R, V]
(Variables and
Equations)
Patterns and 1PR4 Record equalities, using the equal
Relations symbol (0 to 20)
[C, CN, PS, V]
(Variables and
Equations)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTerim 31

REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N1. Say the number sequence 0 This outcome is an important prerequisite for counting items in a set.
to 100 by: “Before there can be any meaningful counting, students must be able
1s forward between any two to recite the sequence beginning 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc” (Small, 2008, p. 84).
given numbers There is a difference between being able to recite the number words
(1, 2, 3…) and understanding how counting is used to describe a set.
1s backward from 20 to 0
The counting sequence itself is a rote procedure; however, “the meaning
2s forward from 0 to 20 attached to counting is the key conceptual idea on which all other
5s and 10s forward from 0 to number concepts are developed” (Van de Walle, 2006, p. 39).
100. As students learn the number sequences, practice should be provided
[C, CN, ME, V] through learning activities integrated throughout the number strand.
Many suggestions for teaching and learning in outcome N3 on pages 36
- 41 will provide opportunities to learn number sequences.
Students’ early understandings of saying the number sequence and
counting can be naturally nurtured through exposure to rich, quality
literature. For example, use literature such as “The Wonderful Pigs Of
Jillian Jiggs” by Phoebe Gilman or Two Ways to Count to Ten by Dee to
show various ways of counting.
Achievement Indicators:

1N1.1 Recite forward by 1s, the Daily Routines - The calendar is an effective visual aid for counting.
number sequence between two Daily calendar routines provide opportunities for students to hear and
given numbers (0 to 100). speak mathematical vocabulary in a natural setting. A calendar exposes
students to counting to and from larger numbers each day as the month
progresses. Good questioning techniques during calendar activities
provide occasions for students to learn the number that comes ‘before’,
the number that comes ‘after’, and the number (s) that comes ‘in
between’.
1N1.2 Recite backward by 1s, Through experience, students become comfortable with saying the
the number sequence between two number sequence forwards and backwards and should be provided with
given numbers (20 to 0). many opportunities to do so throughout the day. For example, as a
way to get students attention, call out a forwards or backwards number
sequence starting at different numbers and have students join in (e.g.,
10, 9, 8… or 17, 16, 15… or 21, 22, 23).

Continued

32 Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INterim

 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Pass the Counting - Begin by counting aloud, saying the first two or Launch
three numbers (1, 2, 3). Then, “pass” the counting on to a student Teacher Guide (TG) p. 17
by tapping him/her on the shoulder. The student continues the
counting from where you left off, saying the next few numbers (4, 5,
6), until you tap another student. Continue to “pass” the counting Lesson 1: Counting to 20
from one student to another until the count reaches 100. This
1N1, 1N3, 1N4
activity can be modified for counting backwards from 20 to 0, as
well as skip counting. (1N1.1, 1.2) TG pp. 18 - 21

• Copy one set of numeral wands for each student on heavy paper. Audio CD 1
Have students cut out their set of cards, punch holes in them and
Selections: 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12,
put each set onto a single paper fastener as shown below. Using the
13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
numeral wands, begin counting in sequence aloud 2 or 3 numbers
(9, 10, 11). Have students hold up the card that comes next. This
activity can be done for counting backwards as well. These can be Depending on your class, you may
used throughout the year to allow students to display answers to choose to introduce this lesson using
questions during morning routine and various other activities. numbers to 10 and later work with
numbers 11-20.

Lesson 1 in the resource asks students

to read number words eleven
to twenty. This goes beyond the
expectation for this grade level.

(1N1.1, 1.2) Unit Centres:

TG p. 15
Numbers Everywhere

Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 33

REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N1 Continued

Achievement Indicators:

1N1.1 Continued Playing games, in which students roll a number cube and say the
numbers aloud as they count the number of spaces to move, is a
1N1.2 Continued valuable task to engage students in reciting a number sequence. As well,
invite students to sing songs and recite poems which involve counting
forwards and backwards, and skip counting. For example: “Ten In A
Bed”, “One, Two, Buckle My Shoe” and “This Old Man.”
Have students practice responsive counting from 0 to 100 with the
teacher or a classmate, beginning at different starting points. For
example, begin by saying “10,” then they say “11,” you say “12,” they
say “13,” and so on, as far as they can count. Repeat the same activity
counting backward, beginning at 20.

1N1.3 Record a given numeral Because it is important that students develop an efficient means of
(0 to 100) symbolically when it is recording numerals, numeral writing should be taught. As students are
presented orally. ready to record information by recording the appropriate numeral(s),
specific instruction and practice will be necessary. Allow the students to
experiment freely on lined and unlined paper, whiteboards, chart paper,
and other mediums. Observe students as they write their numerals, both
when copying from a model and when forming them from memory.
Students should be encouraged to start at the top when printing
numerals. One suggestion for practice is to use their index fingers to
form the numerals on their desks or in the air.
Numeral writing should not be taught in isolation but in relationship
with the quantities they represent. Numeral symbols have meaning
for children only when they are introduced as labels for quantities.
Learning to write symbols is a separate task from learning to associate
numerals with specific quantities. Therefore, because a student has
learned to write the numerals we must be very careful not to assume that
students are learning anything about the quantities they represent.
1N1.4 Read a given numeral As part of a morning routine, randomly cover numbers on a hundred
(0 to 100) when it is presented chart and ask students to uncover and read the numbers that are hidden.
symbolically. In daily routines, use a hundred chart (a chart showing the numbers
from 1 to 100 in lines of 10) or calendar, and ask students to read the
numerals that are presented. The hundred chart is also a valuable tool to
provide practice saying the number sequence from 0 to 100, as well as
skip counting by 2’s, 5’s, and 10’s. For example, when skip counting by
5s, the student may place a counter on every fifth number, reading the
number as the counter is placed on the numeral.

34 Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INterim

 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance
• Hide various quantities of counters under plastic tubs. Lift the tubs Math Makes Sense 1
one at a time and have the students count and record the number of Lesson 1 (Continued): Counting
counters that are hidden under each tub. (1N1.3) to 20
1N1, 1N3, 1N4
Name:
• Provide students with a tub containing a variety of TG pp. 18 - 21
Red 6
colored linking cubes. Ask students to sort the cubes Yellow 2
by color and then count and record the number of Green 0
each. (1N1.3) Blue 3
Black __

• Grab Bag Counting – Provide students with a paper bag containing

10 linking cubes. Students take turns grabbing handfuls of cubes
from the grab bag. They
count and record the number
of cubes in their hand on 4
4 6 8
a recording sheet. As an 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
extension to this activity, use
smaller counters to work with quantities 11 to 20. (1N1.3)

• Attach a string or a clothesline to a wall in the classroom with

number cards displaying any number sequence from 0 to 20. Have
students take turns choosing a number card on the string and
reading their numbers aloud. (The number cards can be turned
around so that students are unable to see the number until it is
selected). (1N1.4)

• Using a walk-on number line and bean bags, have students take
turns tossing a bean bag on the number line and reading the number
where the bean bag landed. They then walk to the number, counting
as they go. (1N1.4)

• Find the Counters - Hide sets of counters under plastic containers to

match the numerals on a number cube. Students roll the cube, and
say the number rolled, to determine the number of counters that
they are to look for. Students take turns lifting the tubs and counting
to see who can find the number of counters matching the number
rolled.

(1N1.4)

Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 35

REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N3 Demonstrate an Counting is very significant for students as it enables them to decide
understanding of counting by: how many are in a collection. Contrasted with rote counting,
indicating that the last number meaningful counting involves an understanding that:
said identifies “how many” • one number is said for each item in the group and is counted only
showing that any set has only once (one-to-one correspondence).
one count • counting begins at the number 1 and there is a set number sequence
using the counting-on strategy (stable order).
using parts or equal groups to • the starting point and order of counting the objects does not affect
count sets the quantity (conservation).
• the arrangement or types of objects does not affect the count
[C, CN, ME, R, V]
(conservation).
• the number in the set is the last number said (cardinality).
The meaning attached to counting is the foundation on which all other
number concepts are developed. For this reason, it is necessary to assess
each student individually in order to determine their understanding
of number, not only in the oral expression of numbers, but also in
counting abilities and sense of number.

Achievement Indicator:
Students should be encouraged to count items in natural situations
1N3.1 Answer the question, that arise in the classroom. All other work with numbers, whether
“How many are in the set?”, using representing quantities or performing operations, is dependent on
the last number counted in a students learning to count. Students should also experience a wide
given set. variety of situations which require counting beyond 10. Students will be
expected to work with only 2-digit numbers at this grade level.

Counting tells how many things are in a set. When counting a set of
objects, the last number in the counting sequence, names the quantity
for that set. Provide a number of objects for students to count. Observe
students to determine their understanding of each of the principles
underlying meaningful counting.
• Do they touch each object as they count?
• Do they set items aside as they count them?
• Do they show confidence in their count or feel the need to check?
• Do they check their counting in the same order as the first count or a
different order?

Continued

36 Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INterim

 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide students with a tub filled with different objects, such as Lesson 1 (Continued): Counting
buttons, blocks, and beans. Have students take a handful (or a small to 20
scoop) of items from the collection. Students then sort the items, 1N1, 1N3, 1N4
count, and record the numeral to match each set. The size of the
items in the collection, and the readiness level of your students, will TG pp. 18 - 21
determine the appropriate number of items to use. (1N3.1)

• Make animals or shapes using Unifix cubes. Ask students to replicate,

count, and record the number of cubes used to make the design.
(1N3.1)
• Display a set of objects. Ask the student, “How many are in your
set?” Observe whether the student:
• says the numbers in the correct order
• moves the objects to avoid confusion
• realizes that the last number said is the number in the set.
Repeat this activity varying the number of objects for students to
count. (1N3.1)

• Walk around the room, stop and make a noise (e.g., ring a bell, clap
hands). Students show the number of sounds using their ‘Numeral
Wand’ (described on page 33). (1N3.1)

Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 37

REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N3 Continued
Achievement Indicator:
When students have an understanding of counting a set, they will
1N3.1 Continued
display confidence in answering the question, “How many are in the
set?” without having to recount. Provide a set of nine objects and ask,
“How many are here?” The student counts correctly and says, “Nine.”
Ask, “Are there nine?” Students who understand that the last number
counted is the quantity of the set (cardinality) will not need to recount.

1N4 Represent and describe Students need various opportunities to explore the numbers between
numbers to 20, concretely, ten and twenty and to develop a deep understanding of these numbers.
pictorially and symbolically. The uniqueness of the “teen” numbers must not be overlooked. When
[C, CN, V] dealing with numbers such as 28 or 46, we “hear” the tens number first;
that is, we say the “twenty” and the “forty” first. This is not the case with
Achievement Indicator: eleven, twelve, or the “teen” numbers. Students need opportunities to
investigate these numbers with concrete materials before moving on to
1N4.2 Read given number words pictorial and symbolic representations.
to 10.
Number words to twenty can be displayed in the classroom, with
pictorial and symbolic representations. However, students are not
expected to read number words eleven to twenty.

8 eight
● ● ● ●
● ● ● ●

38 Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INterim

 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Shuffle a pile of number word cards from zero to ten. Have students Lesson 1 (Continued): Counting
remove one card from the pile and identify the number that is to 20
written on the card. (1N4.2) 1N1, 1N3, 1N4
TG pp. 18 - 21
• Provide students with counters. Show them a number word card
from zero to ten and ask them to read the word on the card and
make a corresponding set with their counters (1N4.2)

• Using number word cards (zero to ten) and numeral cards (0-10),
have students play a game of memory matching the numeral to the
word card. (1N4.2)

Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 39

REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N3 Continued
Achievement Indicators:

1N3.3 Show that the count of To continue to build on the concept of counting, students must have
the number of objects in a given an understanding that the number of objects does not change if they are
set does not change regardless of counted in a different order.
the order in which the objects are
counted

1N3.4 Count the number of Conservation of number, or the understanding that the number of
objects in a given set, rearrange objects does not change when the objects are moved, rearranged, or
the objects, predict the new hidden, is something that occurs with experience and maturity. As
count and recount to verify the students mature cognitively, they begin to realize that the arrangement
prediction of items is irrelevant to the total number in the set. Therefore, it is
important to provide students with opportunities to count sets of
objects where they realize that they get the same total regardless of the
order in which the objects were counted.
Have students count out a number of counters and lay them in a
row. Ask, “How many counters do you have?” Then, spread out the
counters or change their formation as the students are watching. Ask,
“How many are there now?” If the student can tell you that there are 8
counters without recounting, then they are demonstrating conservation
of number. If they recount the counters, conservation of number is not
evident.

1N3.7 Record the number of Numeral symbols have meaning for students only when they are
objects in a given set (up to 100). introduced as labels for quantities. Students learn to write numbers as
they gain a deeper understanding of number. Opportunities should
begin at first by focusing on counting and recording numbers to 10. As
students acquire a deeper understanding of number, students should
count and record numbers up to 100.
1N4 Continued
Achievement Indicator:
1N4.4 Model a given number,
using two different objects; e.g.,
10 desks represents the same
number as 10 pencils.

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Put 10 counters on the overhead projector and count them in Lesson 2: Number Search
different orders (left to right, right to left, starting in the middle).
1N1, 1N3, 1N4
Ask the students to predict what the count would be if they counted
in a different order. Have them count. (1N3.3) TG pp. 22 - 25

• Have students line up. A student will count how many students Audio CD 1:
are in the line. Have the student count the line again starting at a
Selection 21
different place. (1N3.3)
Audio CD 2:
• Ask students to count out fourteen blocks/counters on the table.
Rearrange them by moving them around and displaying them in Selections 1, 2 & 3
two groups. For example, 5 in one group and 9 in the other. Ask
students to identify how many there are altogether. Repeat using
different combinations and observe students’ method of determining Lesson 3: Number Arrangements
how many in all. Observe whether the students have to re-count the
objects or do they recognize that the amount has not changed. 1N3, 1N4, 1N5
(1N3.4) TG pp. 26 - 29
• Using the overhead projector, display 12 counters, have a student
count the number of counters out loud. Rearrange the counters and
have the student predict and verify the count. (1N3.4)

• Scavenger Hunt – Ask students to find a given number of items in

the classroom. For example, for the number 12, students may find
twelve erasers, chairs, blocks, pencils, etc. Have students present their
findings to the class. (1N4.4)

Pencil and Paper

• Extend the counting activities by having students record the number.
(1N3.7)

• Provide each pair of students with paper bags (labelled

A, B, C, D) containing different numbers of cubes.
Have the students count the objects in each bag and
record the number.

(1N3.7)

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REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N4 Continued
Achievement Indicators:
1N4.1 Represent a given number A ten-frame is a 2 x 5 array in which dots or counters are placed to
up to 20, using a variety of illustrate numbers. How students use the ten-frame provides insight into
manipulatives, including ten students number concept development. Students would have already
frames and base ten materials. been introduced to a five-frame in kindergarten. The ten-frame is simply
an extension of the five-frame. E.g.,

Ten-frames focus on the relationship to five and ten as anchors for

numbers. Introduce the following rules for showing numbers on a ten-
frame:
• only one counter, of the same color, is permitted in each box of the
ten-frame
• always fill the top row first starting from left to right (the same way
you read or write)
• when the top row is filled, counters can be placed in the bottom
row, also from left to right
Show the class a ten frame with 9 counters and ask how many counters
there are. Some possible responses are:
• I saw 9. There are 5 on the top and 4 more on the bottom make 9
• I know there are 9 because there is one empty space and one less
than 10 is 9.
• If it was full, it would be 10. But, there is one empty space, so
that makes 9.
1N2.2 Identify the number Relating numbers to benchmark numbers, specifically 5 and 10, is a
represented by a given useful tool for thinking about various combinations of numbers. For
arrangement of dots on a ten example, 6 is the number that is 1 more than 5, or 9 is the number that
frame and describe the number’s is 1 less than 10.
relationship to 5 and/or 10. • Note: There are different views on the placement of counters on the
ten-frame. However, it is important to consider why ten-frames are
used. The main purpose of a ten-frame is to visualize numbers in
relation to 5 and 10, or relate numbers to 5 and 10 as benchmarks.
Hence, in Grade 1, filling left to right with no empty spaces is
strongly recommended so that children internally visualize that when
you have three counters, you need two more to make five; it is two
away from five; or three and two make five.

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

(1N2.2)Performance
• Ten-Frame Flash – Flash ten-frame cards to the class. Ask, “How Math Makes Sense 1
many counters do you see on this ten-frame? How do you know? Lesson 4: Terrific Ten
How many more will make ten?” Repeat using other numbers. 1N2, 1N3, 1N4, 1N8
Record the configurations that each student recognizes without
counting and those that he/she must count to recognize. (1N2.2) TG pp. 30 - 33

• Memory – Place matching sets of ten frame cards face down in Audio CD 1:
an array. Students take turns turning over any two cards to find Selections 17 & 18
matches. They identify the amount on each card and if they are the
same, they take both cards. Play continues until all matches haven’t
been found. (1N2.2) In this lesson, students will work
with numbers 0 - 10. The focus on
numbers 11 - 12 is in lesson 9.
• Tell Me Fast – Provide students with a set of counters. Flash a ten
frame card for approximately three seconds. Have the students take
the number of counters they think they would need to cover the dots
Disregard MMS Teacher Guide,
displayed on the ten-frame. After students have made their sets, place
Unit 2, pages 94 & 95, in which
the card in front of one student who should then place his or her
counters on the dots, while the other students count and check. Ask ten-frames are displayed showing
the student to explain how they identified the number represented counters placed in a random order.
on the ten frame.

For the above ten frame, a student might respond, “I know there
are 8 because there are 5 on the top row and 3 more make 8”. The
student might also respond, “I know if the frame is full, there are 10
but there are 2 missing so that makes 8”. Repeat this activity using
other ten frame cards with different representations of numbers to
10.

• Ten Frame Match - using music. Half the students have prepared
ten-frames, the other half have numeral cards. Play the music, when
the music stops have students find their partner matching the ten
frame with the numeral card. (1N4.1)

Student-Teacher Dialogue
• Ask students to explain why it might be easier to count the number
of counters on the left than the number on the right.

(1N2.2)

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REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N8 Identify the number, up to When simply counting, students do not necessarily reflect on the
20, that is one more, two more, connection between two numbers. In order to relate numbers such as 6
one less and two less than a given and 8, students need to explore the ‘two more than” and “two less than”
number. relationship and understand that the relationship between 6 and 8 can
[C, CN, ME, R, V] be described as “six is two less than eight” and “eight is two more than
six.” Numbers with a difference of one should be similarly explored.
Student’s initial exploration of numbers that are one more than, one less
than, two more than, and two less than should be done concretely using
sets of objects.
Dot plates/cards, ten frames and dominoes are worthwhile tools to
use to facilitate development of the concepts of one more/less and two
more/less.

Achievement Indicators:
Have students use counters to create a set equal in number to a given
1N8.1 Name the number that is
set. Ask them to change their set to equal a number that is one more/less
one more, two more, one less or
or two more/less than their current set. For example, “Change your
two less than a given number, up
set of 8 counters to show 10.” Have students explain what they did to
to 20.
create the new set. Observe those who are aware that they have to add 2
more to make the set of 10 and students who wipe away the initial set of
8 counters and begin counting from 1. To encourage counting on rather
than beginning the count again, ask students how many more counters
need to be added to the set of 8 to make the set of 10.

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance
Math Makes Sense 1
• Show students a set of objects and count the objects to find the
total. Say, “I am adding one more to the set. How many objects Lesson 4 (Continued): Terrific
are there now?” Observe whether students can name the number Ten
without having to recount. Repeat using other quantities and assess if
1N2, 1N3, 1N4, 1N8
students can identify one more, one less, two more, and two less.
TG pp. 30 - 33
(1N8.1)
• Have students count out a set of 6 counters by placing a counter
above the numbers one to six on a number line. Ask, “What number
would be two more than six?” Repeat using other numbers. (1N8.1)

• In groups of 2 to 4 players, have the students play “More or Less

Bingo.”
2 4 ●●●
●●●
●●
●●
7
●● 3 2 ● ●●●
Lesson 12: One and Two More,
●●● ●●
7 5 FREE
● 6 One and Two Less
●●
●●● ●● 8 ●● ●
1N3, 1N8
●●
6 ●●● 5 ●●● 4 (1N8.1)
● ●●● TG pp. 54 - 57

Take turns rolling a standard number cube and a spinner labeled

This lesson provides extra practice
with the words one more, one less, two more, and two less.
and can be used now or later as
• Cover the number on the game board to correspond with the follow up.
number rolled and the direction on the spinner.
• The first player to get a straight line is the winner. (1N8.1)

• Give each student a number between one and ten to make on their
ten-frame, or between one and twenty to make on their double
ten-frame. Students make up a riddle about their number using only
the language “one more, one less, two more, two less”. For example,
“My number is two more than 10. What is my number?” This
activity could also be done using the number wands. (1N8.2)

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REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N2 Subitize (recognize at Subitizing is the ability to recognize dot arrangements in different
a glance) and name familiar patterns. Students should recognize that there are many ways to arrange
arrangements of 1 to 10 objects, a set of objects and that some arrangements are easier to recognize more
dots or pictures. quickly than others.
[C, CN, ME, V] E.g.
Achievement Indicator: ● ●
●●●
● ●
1N2.1 Look briefly at a given ●●●
versus ● ● ●
●●●
familiar arrangement of objects, ● ●
dots or pictures and identify the
number represented without Recognition of small arrangements of objects helps students understand
counting. the process of counting on, composing and decomposing numbers,
and that a number can be represented in many ways. Subitizing also
encourages reflective thinking while deepening number sense. It will be
useful with respect to:

• addition; for example, 5 = 4 + 1 (or 2 + 1 + 2) is apparent from:

● ●
●
● ●

and 6 = 3 + 3 or 2 + 2 + 2 is apparent from:

● ●
● ●
● ●

• place value; for example, groups of 10 can be easily observed in:

Materials such as dot plates or cards, ten-frames, and number cubes are
useful for the development of subitizing configurations of numbers from
1 to 10. ●
● ●
● ● ●
● ● ● ●

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Dot Plate Flash - Use prepared dot arrangements for numbers 0 Lesson 5: Seeing Numbers
to 10. Hold up a dot plate for one to three seconds. Say, “How
1N2, 1N4
many? How did you see it?” Students might say, “I saw 6. I saw 3
on one side and 3 on the other.” Observe how quickly students can TG pp. 34 - 35
recognize the number of dots without counting. (1N2.1)

• Snap – Provide partners with two sets of dot cards in two different
This lesson should focus on
colors. Each student gets one set of cards. Play begins with each
student flipping over their top card. If they are the same amount, subitizing.
they say “Snap.” The student who says “Snap” first gets both cards.
Play continues until all cards have been matched.
MMS Teacher Guide, Unit 2, pages
94 and 95, in which ten frames
are displayed showing counters
in random places, should be
(1N2.1)
disregarded.

• Place one to ten counters on an overhead projector and cover them.

Have students look at the screen and uncover the counters for a few
seconds only. Ask students to tell you how many counters they saw
and to explain their answer. Ask, “How did you know there are 5?”
The student might respond, “There are 5 because I saw two on one
side and three on the other.” Repeat with different numbers and
different arrangements for each number.
(1N2.1)

• Concentration - Begin by having students place a selection of dot

cards and number cards face down on a table. Students take turns
turning over cards to find matching sets. When they find a match,
they remove the pair of cards from play.

(1N2.1)

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REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N2 Continued

Achievement Indicator:

1N2.1 Look briefly at a given At first, students will count the dots or the objects. Eventually, students
familiar arrangement of objects, must be able to recognize the arrangements without counting. To avoid
dots or pictures and identify the the misconception that an arrangement can only represent a specific
number represented without quantity if it is arranged in a certain way, it is VERY important to vary
counting. the orientation of the objects, dots, or pictures. When asking students
to identify the number of fingers, use different combinations of fingers
so that students do not believe that there is only one way to represent
the number. For example, the number six can be represented with five
fingers on one hand and one on the other, two fingers on one hand and
four on the other, three fingers on each hand, etc.

Subitizing should initially focus on arrangements of numbers from 1

to 5 and gradually increase for numbers of items up to 10. For most
numbers, there are several common arrangements. Configurations can
also be made up of two or more easier arrangements of smaller numbers.
For example:

This dot configuration shows 7 as:

• a set of 3 and a set of 4
• a set of 2, a set of 3, and a set of 2

Dot Plates - Prepare dot arrangements using stickers on recipe cards

or on paper plates to create a variety of arrangements for numbers 0 to
10. (For some dot arrangements, see Van de Walle, Teaching Student
Centered Mathematics Grade K-3, p. 44). The use of paper plates as
opposed to cards provides numerous opportunities for students to “see”
various configurations as the plates are rotated.

Number Cubes – Game materials such as number cubes and dominoes

are useful for recognizing familiar configurations (subitizing).

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide opportunities for students to discover which configurations Lesson 5 (Continued): Seeing
are easier to recognize. For example, ask students to show 7 in several Numbers
ways, and then decide which configuration(s) is (are) easiest to
1N2, 1N4
identify. E.g.,
TG pp. 34 - 35

(1N2.1)
• Attach a string to a wall in the classroom. Provide each student with
a numeral card and a random dot card. Have students match their
cards by pinning them together with a clothespin. Students then
sequence the cards by attaching them to the string.
(1N2.1) Unit Centre:
TG p. 15
What’s My Number?

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Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N3 Continued

Achievement Indicator:

1N3.5 Determine the total When counting on, students should say aloud the number they are
number of objects in a given set, counting on from while pointing to that group, and then count on from
starting from a known quantity there, pointing to each item as they continue the counting sequence. For
and counting on. example, to count on to find the total of a dot plate of three and a dot
plate of two, students point to the plate showing three and say “three.”
They count on by pointing to each dot on the other plate and saying,
“four, five.” Students who are not yet counting on, will recognize there
are three dots on the first dot plate; however will recount the dots on the
plate (e.g., 1, 2, 3) and then count the other dots (e.g., 4, 5).
Counting on and counting back are fundamental prerequisites
for addition and subtraction and their importance should not be
underestimated.

Have students place 8 blocks in a straight line across the top of their
desk and cover 3 with one hand. Ask them to count the total number
of blocks, beginning with the number hidden and counting on to
include the others that are in view. Observe whether students point to
the hidden counters saying, “three” and then point to each counter in
view and count on, “four, five, six, seven, eight.” Repeat using different
numbers.

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General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• This game is played in pairs and requires a spinner, cup, counters, Lesson 6: Representing Numbers
and recording sheet. The first player spins and places the indicated 10 to 20
number of counters in the cup. The second student spins and places
1N3, 1N4
that number of counters next to the cup. Together, they decide how
many counters in all and record the numerals on the recording sheet. TG pp. 36 - 39

(1N3.5)

• Roll two number cubes (one standard die and one labeled with
numerals 10 - 14). Students find the total by starting their count
with the numeral on one cube and counting on to determine the
total of both cubes. For example, to ‘count on’ to find the sum of a
roll of the numeral 14 on one cube and the dot configuration of 3
on the other cube, students can say, “14,” while pointing to the die
showing 14, and then say “15, 16, 17,” as they point to each dot on
the other cube. (1N3.5)

• Make two groups of objects. Hide one group under a sheet of

paper and write the numeral on the paper for the student to see.
Leave the other group exposed. Ask: “How many counters are there
altogether?” Because the student cannot see the hidden counters,
he/she is forced to count on from the number they see written on the
paper covering the hidden counters. For example:

Students may respond to this task by pointing to the paper, saying

“5,” and then counting on, “6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11” (1N3.5)

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REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N4 Continued

Achievement Indicator:

1N4.3 Partition any given The ability to think about a number in terms of its parts is an important
quantity up to 20 into 2 parts, milestone in the development of number. It is important not to rush
and identify the number of objects students to work with larger numbers until they are able to deal
in each part. confidently with smaller numbers. In Kindergarten, students would have
explored part-part-whole relationships of numbers to 10. Students need
to be confident with number combinations to ten as this work is critical
to building a strong mathematical foundation that will serve students
in later grades. In Grade One, students need to be provided with many
opportunities to explore part-part-whole relationships of numbers to 20.

To assess student’s understanding of number combinations, it is

important to use hands-on activities whereby students manipulate the
materials to break a number into two different
parts. For example, provide students with
counters and a part-part-whole mat and ask
them to show the number 12 broken into two
separate parts. One possible combination would
be:

Then, ask the students to find other ways to partition the number into
two parts. Repeat using other numbers up to 20.

Snap It – Students sit in a circle with the same number of Unifix cubes.
Count, “one, two, three,” and everyone says, “Snap It!” Students break
off some of the Unifix cubes and hide them behind their back. Taking
turns, each student shows how many cubes are left in their hand while
the other students guess how many are hidden. For example, if each
student has 12 cubes, they may snap it into two parts hiding five behind
their back and seven in view. Students then show how they snapped
their cubes and verbalize the part-part-whole combination. For example,
“I’ve got seven in my hand, and five hiding behind my back. Now I’ve
got 12.” This activity can be used as part of your daily routine.

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General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance
Math Makes Sense 1
• Provide each student with a number of two-sided counters. Have
students shake the counters in a cup and spill them onto a plate. Lesson 6 (Continued):
Have students say the number combinations that make up the Representing Numbers 10 to 20
whole. E.g.
1N3, 1N4
Students may verbalize “I have three red counters and
TG pp. 36 - 39
seven white counters. Three and seven more make
10.”
Students may shake and spill the same number of Unit Centre:
counters again and verbalize the resulting number TG p. 15
combinations. (1N4.3) Grouping Madness
• Tell stories such as:
There are 16 monkeys at the zoo. In their cage, there are two trees.
When it rains, the monkeys like to climb up the trees. One day
when I visited the zoo, all the monkeys were in the trees. How
many monkeys could be in each tree? Are there other answers?
In my bowl, I have apples and bananas. There are 14 pieces of fruit
altogether. How many apples and bananas do I have? Are there
any other answers?
Have students use a part-part-whole mat and counters to represent
the story. (1N4.3)

• What’s My Hidden Number? – Provide counters, numeral cards

from 0 to 20, and a small container. In pairs, one student selects a
numeral card and counts the number of counters to represent the
number selected. The other student hides some of the counters
under the small container and then asks, “How many do you think
are hidden? How do you know?” The partner guesses the number
hidden and explains his/her answer. The number hidden is revealed
to check the answer. Model this activity with the whole group prior
to having students work in small groups.
(1N4.3)
• Ask students to use two different colors of snap cubes to build three
different cube trains to represent a number up to 20. For example, to
represent the number 12, students may build the following trains:

“Ten and two more make twelve.”

“Six and six more make twelve”

“Seven and five make twelve`

(1N4.3)

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Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
Problem Solving A student’s earliest experience with mathematics is through solving
problems. NCTM (2000) states that “problem solving means engaging
in a task for which the solution method is not known in advance”
(p.52). Solving problems is naturally embedded within the curriculum.
To find solutions, students must draw on knowledge, and through
this process they will often develop new mathematical understanding.
By engaging in problem solving tasks, students will develop new ways
of thinking, perseverance, curiosity and confidence with unfamiliar
situations. Good problem solvers are able to tackle everyday situations
effectively.
A true problem requires students to use prior learning in new ways
and contexts. If students have already been given ways to solve the
problem, it is not a problem, but practice. They should be comprised
of problems arising from daily routines as well as non-routine tasks.
Problem solving requires student engagement and builds depth of
conceptual understanding. Engaging students in rich problem solving
tasks gives them the opportunity to solidify and extend upon what they
already know, thus stimulating their mathematical learning. Setting
up an environment that encourages risk taking persistence in order
for students to solve worthwhile problems athat are meaningful, is
important. Problems can be presented orally, visually or by written-
and-oral approach. Your role is to choose worthwhile problems that
are meaningful to the student, and to provide an environment that
encourages risk taking and persistence.
It is important to explicitly discuss problem solving strategies with
students, preferably as they come up naturally in the classroom activities
and discussions. There is value in naming the strategies so that students
can discuss and recall them readily. (You may consider posting the
strategies in your classroom where they are taught).

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General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Math Makes Sense 1

Lesson 7: Strategies Toolkit
TG pp. 40 - 41

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Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
Problem Solving (Continued) Each unit will focus on one specific problem solving strategy with
Make a Model suggested ideas to practice. Although certain strategies are highlighted
within specific units, students are essentially ‘filling their toolboxes’ with
problem solving tools that can be used at any time. Here is a list of the
strategies covered and their corresponding unit of focus:
Strategy Unit of Focus
Act it Out Numbers to 20
Make a Model Numbers to 20
Look for a Pattern Patterning
Draw a Picture Numbers to 100
Guess and Check Addition and Subtraction to 12
Use an Object Measurement
Choose a Strategy Addition and Subtraction to 20
Geometry
• Act it Out In ‘Act it Out’ students physically act out the problem to find the
solution.

• Make a Model ‘Make a Model’ is very similar to ‘Act it Out’, but students use a variety
of materials or manipulatives available in the classroom to represent the
elements in the problem.

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General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

Ask the student to solve this problem by physically acting it out: Lesson 7 (Continued): Strategies
• 15 (use the number of students in your class) students are in the Toolkit
classroom, some are sitting and some are standing. How many are TG pp. 40 - 41
sitting? How many are standing? Ask certain groups to stand up
while others remain seated. Have students count the number of
students sitting and the number of students standing.

Have students solve this problem using concrete materials available:

• 12 crayons fell on the floor. Some were red and some were blue. How
many are red? How many are blue? (If necessary, adjust the colors in
the problem to match the cubes you have available.)
• Use red and blue snap cubes to represent the red and blue crayons.
Count the red cubes to determine the number of red crayons, count
the blue cubes to determine the number of blue crayons.

Lesson 8:
Omitted

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REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N4 Continued
Achievement Indicator:

1N4.1 Represent a given number Physical models, provided through the use of ten-frames, Unifix cubes,
up to 20, using a variety of and later, base ten materials, play a key role in helping students develop
manipulatives, including ten the idea of “a ten” as both a single entity and as a set of 10 units. Models
frames and base ten materials. should be proportional, that is, a ten model should be ten times larger
than a model for a one. Students should group materials themselves, as
would be the case with popsicle sticks, straws, ten-frames, and Unifix
cubes. Pre-grouped models, like base-ten blocks, should be used later
only when students realize the value of the model. It is not appropriate
to discuss place-value concepts at this time (e.g., expecting the students
to tell what the “1” in “16” represents). However, making the group
of ten is explored when developing number meanings for 11 – 19. For
example, using 10 as the benchmark, students will see 13 as ten and
three more; however, they do not need to understand that the “1” in 13
represents the tens place.

Provide 2 ten-frames and counters for each student. Ask the students to
model a number between 11 and 19 with the counters. For example, ask
students to model the number sixteen. Next ask them to show thirteen
on their ten frame,

Observe:
• Do they make the ten first?
• Do they remove all the counters?
• Do they add to/remove counters on the bottom frame?
• Are they able to verbalize appropriately saying, “Ten and six are
sixteen”?

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Number Trains – Provide students with a spinner with numbers 11 Lesson 9: Numbers to 20
to 20, and Unifix cubes (or interlocking base-ten units). Students
1N1, 1N4, 1N8
spin the spinner and count that number of cubes. They link the
cubes together to from a train of 10 and leave the remaining cubes TG pp. 44 - 45
separate. Observe whether they use appropriate verbalization to tell
how many (e.g., “ten and three more are thirteen”). (1N4.1)

• Spill It Out! – Provide students with bags of objects, such as lima

beans, buttons, or counters, to represent numbers from 11 to 20.
Have students choose a bag and spill the objects onto their desks.
They place one object in each block of their ten-frame and count
how many altogether. Observe if they count on from ten or begin
counting at one. Have students record the total number (N3.7).
Repeat using other bags of objects with various quantities.
(1N3.7, 4.1)
• Ten Frame Counting - Provide each student with a different number
(0-20). On a blank ten frame students will represent their number
using a bingo dabber. As a class, place the ten frames in order from
0-20 and display in the class for future use. (1N4.1)

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REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N4 Continued

Achievement Indicator:

1N4.5 Place given numerals on a It is essential for students to have a strong number sense to prepare
number line with benchmarks 0, them for other outcomes where the relationships of one more than,
5, 10 and 20. two more than, one less than, and two less than are explored. Making
connections to benchmarks of 5 and 10 (and their multiples) are critical.
For example, students need to understand that eleven is 10 and 1 more,
twelve is 10 and 2 more, and 16 is 10 and 6 more. A number line is a
valuable tool to encourage reference to benchmarks.
Create a walk-on number line with benchmarks 5, 10, 15 and 20.
Distribute different numbers to students and have them either stand
on the number line in place or place the number where it should go. At
first each number can be marked then after students develop confidence
1N8 Continued placing numbers on the line, it can just have the benchmarks.
Achievement Indicator:

1N8.2 Represent a number on a Have students show a number between one and ten on their ten-frames.
ten frame that is one more, two Ask them to add/remove counters to make the number that is one
more, one less or two less than a more/less, two more/less. Students must change their ten-frame to show
given number. the new number. Use a double ten-frame to explore the numbers from
one to twenty.

Using a number line throughout the year helps students develop a

stronger understanding of number. At first, you may start a number line
from only 0 to 5 and have students place 1, 2, 3, and 4 one it and explay
why they placed the number where they placed it. (e.g., I placed 1 there
because it is closer to 0 than to 5). As students become more confident,
increase the numbers on the number line.
Provide students with strips of adding paper and different number cards
from 1 to 20. Have students work with a partner and place the numbers
on the number line. Number lines can range from 0 - 5, 0 - 10, 0 - 20
or even 10 - 20 depending on your students.

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance
• Use beads in two different colors to create number lines on strings. Math Makes Sense 1
Alternate colors every 5 beads. Label the beads at the benchmarks 5, Lesson 9 (Continued): Numbers
10, 15, and 20. Call out a number between zero and twenty. Have to 20
students find the bead corresponding to the number and identify its
place in relation to the benchmark number. For example, 8 can be 1N1, 1N4, 1N8
seen as 3 more than 5 or 2 less than 10. (1N4.5) TG pp. 44 - 45

• Number Ladders – The benchmark numbers 5, 10, 15, and 20 are

placed across the table, with spaces between each number. In small
groups, students take turns selecting a numeral card and placing it
on the number ladder, explaining their placement. For example, if a
student selects the number 12, he or she might place the card a little
above 10 and say, “It goes here because it is two more than ten.” Play
continues until the ladder is completed will all numbers from zero
to twenty placed in correct order on the ladder. (Model this activity
with the whole group prior to having students work in small groups).
(1N4.5)
• Give each student a number card (the card may have the number
word, the numeral, and/or a dot configuration) Have students with
the numbers 5, 10, 15 and 20 line up in order, spacing themselves
out. Have the remaining students place themselves in order according
to their number. (1N8.2)

• Clear the Deck – Provide students with a double ten frame and
ask them to use counters to fill their ten-frames to show 20 (some
students may need to fill one ten frame to show 10). Students take
turns spinning a spinner with the words – one more, two more, one
less, and two less, to see whether to add or remove counters. If the
player spins a direction that cannot be followed, the player loses
a turn. Therefore, to begin the game, students must spin one less
or two less as they cannot add one more or two more to their ten
frames. The first player to clear their double ten-frame is the winner.
(1N8.2)
Student-Teacher Dialogue
• Record, tape, or pin the benchmark numbers on a section of adding
machine tape, sentence strip paper, or a skipping rope. Have students
place numbers between zero and twenty in the appropriate places
on the number line. Ask students to identify where they placed their
number and why. For example, “I placed the number twelve 3 spaces
past the number nine because 12 is 3 more than 9.” (1N4.5)

Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 61

REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N6.Estimate quantities to 20 by Estimation helps to develop useful benchmarks for thinking about
using referents. numbers. To develop estimation skills, students should be provided
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V] with collections of objects and asked to estimate the size of the group.
Referents such as 5, 10, 15, and 20 are useful benchmarks to facilitate
the development of estimation skills. For smaller collections, one
might be asking whether it is closer to 5 or 10. For larger collections,
one might be asking whether the group is closer to 10 or 20. Include
situations in which sets have the same number of items but differ in
the amount of physical space they cover. The ability to estimate, a key
reasoning skill in mathematics, should develop with regular practice over
the course of the year, with larger collections being examined later in the
Achievement Indicators: year.

1N6.1 Estimate a given quantity Randomly scatter 6 or 8 objects on an overhead projector. Turn on the
by comparing it to a given referent projector long enough for students to see the objects but not to count
(known quantity). them. Turn off the projector and ask:
• Do you think there were more or fewer than 10?
• About how many objects did you see?
Record students’ estimates on chart paper. Turn on the projector and
begin to count the objects together. After counting three or four of the
counters, pause counting, and ask if any students would like to revise
their estimates and then continue counting. Record the actual number
counted. Compare the actual number to the estimates given. Determine
which estimates were the most reasonable. Have students, whose
estimates were closest to the actual count, share how they arrived at their
estimates.
Repeat the overhead activity several times throughout the year using a
variety of objects representing quantities up to 20. As well, place the
objects in regular and irregular patterns. For example, place 7 objects
as they would appear on a ten-frame or scattered randomly on the
overhead
1N6.2 Select an estimate for a It is important for students to understand what makes a good estimate.
given quantity from at least two All counting activities can be modified to include estimation. Students
possible options, and explain the may estimate how many are in a set prior to finding the actual count.
choice. Prepare daily estimation tasks by placing several objects in a jar and
having students record their names and estimates. Sometime throughout
the day, empty the jar, count the objects, and compare the estimates to
the actual number. Be sure to have students share how they arrived at
their estimates.

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Prepare plastic baggies with varying quantities of objects from 1 to Lesson 10: Estimating Quantities
20. Show students the collections, one at a time, and ask them to
1N4, 1N6
estimate the quantity by relating it to the benchmark of 5, 10, 15,
or 20. Count the objects to determine the reasonableness of their TG pp. 46 - 49
estimates. (1N6.1)

• Show students a group of 12 buttons. Ask: “Do you think there are
about 10 or 20 buttons in the group? Explain your choice.” Repeat
using different objects and quantities. (1N6.1, 6.2)

• Prepare three transparent containers, one with 3 objects, one with

11 objects and one with 18 objects. The objects and containers must
be the same. Provide students with three numeral cards with the
numbers 1, 9, and 20. Ask them to match the container with the
numeral card that shows the most reasonable estimate and explain
their choice. (1N6.2)

Student-Teacher Dialogue
• Provide four or more sets of objects such as a set of interlocking
cubes, a set of marbles, a set of clothespins, or a set of blocks. Have
students look at each set separately and ask, “How many interlocking
cubes do you think will fit in your hand? Would the number be
closer to 5, 10, 15, or 20?” After students have made their estimates,
they take a handful of objects from the set and count them. When
students have counted, ask: “Did you make a good estimate? Why or
why not?” Repeat using other sets of objects. (1N6.1, 6.2)

• Place 18 cubes in a container. Show it to the students and ask:

• How many cubes do you think are in the container?
• Do you think there are more than 20 or fewer than 20 cubes?
Why or why not? A lot more/fewer or just a few more/fewer?
Have the students count the cubes and then ask, “Are there more
cubes or fewer cubes than you predicted?” Repeat using a variety of
objects and quantities. (1N6.1, 6.2)

• If I showed you a set of 7 objects, would 1 be a good estimate? What

about 15? Why or why not?
• If I showed you a set of 18 objects, would 100 be a good estimate?
What about 20? Why or why not?
• What do you think makes a good estimate? (1N6.1, 6.2)

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REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N5 Compare and order sets Students should compare the size of sets in many different contexts.
containing up to 20 elements to Include situations in which:
solve problems, using:
• the size of the sets are the same
• referents (known quantities)
• the size of the sets differ
• one-to-one correspondence
This will lead to exploring number relationships such as “one more
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]
than,” “one less than,” “two more than,” etc. When students compare
sets, ensure that the two sets are:
• lined up side by side and the students pair the items; or
• grouped in clusters and the students need to move the items to
match them one-to-one and compare the size of the sets.
It is desirable, at times, that the items in the sets go together naturally
(e.g., left glove/right glove), and that at other times the items are
unrelated (e.g., desks and pencils). Concrete objects should be used
when exploring one-to-one correspondence.
Achievement Indicators:

1N5.1 Build a set equal to a Students might be encouraged to compare amounts to benchmarks such
given set that contains up to 20 as 5, 10, 15 or 20, so as to get a feel for the relative size of quantities.
elements. For example, for smaller collections, is it closer to 5 or 10? For larger
collections, is it closer to 10 or 20?

1N5.2 Build a set that has more The term “fewer than” is used when describing sets of objects. Later,
elements than, fewer elements when numbers are compared, the term “less than” is more appropriate.
than or as many elements as a When talking about sets that have the same number of objects, use the
given set. terms “the same number” and “as many as”.

The concept of fewer (or less) is often more difficult for students because
thinking about what is not there is harder than thinking about what is
there. It is easier for students to see the relationships between quantities,
and tell how many more or how many fewer, when the difference
between the quantities is small.

Provide students with a set of objects and ask them to build a set that
has more, a set that has less, and a set that is the same as the given set.

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide pairs of students with a strip of six to eight mixed-up Lesson 11: More, Fewer or the
numbers ranging from 0 to 20 (consider beginning with numbers 0 Same?
to 10 if needed). E.g. 1N5, 1PR3, 1PR4
6 Beginning at the top of the strip, one student reads a number TG pp. 50 - 53
and the other student builds it with counters. As each number
9 is read, the builder must change the quantity of objects to
reflect the number being read. Both students must identify
12 how many objects need to be added or removed in order to
14 move from one number to the next. (1N5.1, 5.2)

Student-Teacher Dialogue
• Give students a set of interlocking cubes and ask them to build
towers using more than, fewer than, or the same as in the directions.
For example,
• Build a tower that is one more than 11.
• Build a tower that is two fewer than 18.
• Build a tower that is the same as mine. (1N5.1, 5.2)

• Give each student two ten-frames and 20 counters. Have all students
show you the number fourteen on the ten-frames, filling from left to
right. Ask students what they will do to display the number twelve.
Ask: “Will you add or remove counters to the ten-frames?” “Is twelve
more or less than fourteen? How do you know?” (1N5.2)

• Show the student a set of objects representing a number between 1

and 20. Ask the student to build a set that is the same as the given
set. Observe if the student uses one-to-one correspondence to build
the set. Then, ask him/her to build a set that has more and a set that
has fewer. Observe whether the student can manipulate his or her set
to demonstrate these concepts. (1N5.1, 5.2)

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REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N5 Continued
Achievement Indicators:

1N5.3 Compare two given sets, One-to-one correspondence is a very important concept to understand
using one-to-one correspondence, in relationships among numbers, in problem solving, and later in
and describe them, using constructing and analyzing graphs. Most students use one-to-one
comparative words such as more, correspondence when comparing sets of concrete objects. Students
fewer or as many. should be able to create and compare sets, using comparative words,
by matching one-to-one. Graphing is not specifically identified as
an outcome for Grade One; however, it can be used as a strategy for
comparing sets.
Label two paper bags, one with “Yes” and one with “No.” Ask students
a yes or no question such as “Do you like strawberries?” To answer the
question, students place a cube in either the “Yes” or the “No” bag.
The cubes are then counted and the numbers are compared using the
comparative language more, fewer, and as many as. (Consider including
students from other classes for this activity to compare larger numbers).

1N5.4 Solve a given story Problem solving enables students to make sense of mathematical
problem (pictures and words) that concepts. Problems should be relevant and there should be multiple
involves the comparison of two paths to arrive at a solution. Students need many opportunities to
quantities. model and solve a variety of problems involving the comparison of two
quantities. Examples of problems include:
• There are 15 students in our class. Nine are girls and six are boys.
How many more girls are there than boys? (Students may physically
arrange themselves into two groups and then solve the problem).
• Mark blew up 10 balloons. Four were red and six were green. How
many more balloons does Mark have to blow up to have the same
number of red and green balloons? (Students may draw a picture to
solve this problem).

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance
Math Makes Sense 1
• In pairs, give each student 20 interlocking cubes. They snap their
cubes together to form a tower and compare their towers to show Lesson 11 (Continued): More,
that they are the same. Students put their towers behind their back Fewer or the Same?
and simultaneously break off part of their tower and place one of the 1N5, 1PR3, 1PR4
pieces in view. One player spins a spinner, with the words more and
fewer. If the spinner lands on more, the student with more cubes TG pp. 50 - 53
in view takes both stacks. If the spinner lands on fewer, the student
with fewer cubes in view takes both stacks. Play continues until one
player runs out of cubes. (1N5.2, 5.3)

• Ask students to record their first and last names and compare the
number of letters in his/her first name to the number in his/her last
name to see which name has more. (1N5.3)

• Line up 7 boys and 3 girls. Ask: What must be changed to make the
number of girls equal to the number of boys? (1N5.3)

• Prepare a set of 30 cards displaying objects up to 20. Shuffle the

cards and deal ten to each player. Each player places their cards
face down on the table. Players take turns flipping cards from their
respective piles. Students compare sets to determine who has the set
with fewer. That student earns a counter. Play continues until all
cards have been played. The student with the most counters is the
winner. (1N5.3)

• In pairs, students take turns spinning a spinner with any

combination of numbers to 20. Using interlocking cubes, they build
a set that is the same as the number on the spinner. They compare
their sets to determine who has more/fewer/same. The student who
has more/fewer/same (depending on the rule), earns a counter. The
first student to earn ten counters is the winner. (1N5.3)

• Present problems such as the following:

• I have 12 stickers in my collection. My friend says she has fewer.
How many stickers might my friend have in her collection? (Any
number less that twelve is acceptable for this problem).
• There are 15 flowers in the green pot and 18 flowers in the blue
pot. Which pot has more (or fewer) flowers? How do you know?
• Molly has 2 more toy cars that Jack. Jack has 5 cars. How many
more cars does Molly have?
Ask students to solve the problems using pictures, numbers, and
words and present their work to the class. (1N5.4)
Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 67
REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Variables and Equations)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1PR3 Describe equality as a In everyday life, we sort things by comparison relationships. For
balance and inequality as an example, we may observe that Ron is taller than Mary or that Monica
imbalance, concretely and takes more time than Valerie to complete her homework. Relationships
pictorially (0 to 20). also apply to number. We may observe that five is two less than seven or
[C, CN, R, V] twelve is three more than nine. Many opportunities should be provided
to allow students to learn the relationships between numbers to ten and
then to twenty.
It is important for students to focus on comparing numbers and
learning the language used to describe these relationships. Students
should use the vocabulary: more/greater, fewer/less, same as, and equal,
Achievement Indicator: and as well as talk about the strategies they use to compare groups.
Balance activities form a basis for understanding equality. Working with
PR3.1 Construct two equal sets,
balance scale problems, students build the foundation for further study
using the same objects (same
in the area of algebra and solving equations.
shape and mass), and demonstrate
their equality of number, using a Using concrete materials, students can examine how a balance operates
balance scale. like the seesaw in the playground. Place an equal sign between the two
arms of the scale. This will help students begin to make the connection
between the relationship of the quantities on each side of the scale and
the equal sign.
Place six red cubes on one side of a balance scale and four yellow cubes
on the other. Ask students to predict how many more cubes they would
need to make the scale balance. Have students place blue cubes, one at a
time, onto the scale until it balances. Students then count the number
of cubes on each side, reinforcing the idea that both sides have the same
number of cubes by saying, “Both sides are equal.” Draw attention to
the fact that one side of the balance scale is represented by 6 red cubes.
The other side of the balance scale is represented by 4 yellow and 2 blue
cubes.

PR3.2 Construct two unequal When comparing numbers, many students may recognize that 5 is
sets, using the same objects (same greater than 4, but not automatically realize, that 4 is less than 5. Both
shape and mass), and demonstrate sides of the relationship need to be considered when completing the
their inequality of number, using tasks.
a balance scale Whenever possible, use mathematical language (e.g., “5 is greater than
4” and “3 is less than 5”). Eventually students will use the greater-than
symbol and less-than symbol (e.g., 5 > 4 or 3 < 5), but is not required at
this grade level.

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Represent Algebraic Expressions in Multiple Ways

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance: Math Makes Sense 1

• Working in partners, one student puts cubes in a paper bag and Lesson 11 (Continued): More,
places the bag on a balance scale. The partner predicts the number Fewer or the Same
of cubes in the bag. (He/she may change their prediction as the scale
1N5, 1PR3, 1PR4
begins to balance). The partner then begins to add cubes to the other
side of the balance to verify his/her prediction. Once the scale is TG pp. 50 - 53
balanced, ask: How many cubes do you think are in the bag? How
do you know? The partners count and compare the number of cubes
on both sides.

• Provide a balance scale and two colors of Unifix cubes seperated into
two paper bags. Have a student take a handful of cubes from one bag
and count and then take another handful of cubes from the second
bag and count. The student puts each set on opposite sides of the
balance scale. He/she compares the sets and states which one has
more cubes and which has fewer cubes (e.g., 3 is less than 6 or 6 is
greater than 3).

• Provide two colors of Unifix cubes in two paper bags, a balance scale,
and a spinner labeled more/less. Working in partners, one student
takes a handful of cubes from one bag and counts. The other Indicators 1PR3.1 and 1PR3.2
student spins the spinner. If the spinner lands on greater, he/she are not covered by the text.
must make a set greater than their partner. If the spinner lands on
less, he/she must make a set that is less than their partner. The sets
are placed on the balance scale to confirm the inequality of the two
sets.

Pencil and Paper

• Students write the letters of their name, one letter in a square on
a grid. Students compare the number of letters in their names to
determine which has more or less. Ask:
• Who in your group has the greater/most number of letters in
their name?
• Does anyone in your group have the same/equal number of letters
in their name(s) as in your name? How do you know?
• Who in your group has the least/fewest number of letters in their
name? How do you know? (1PR3.3)

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REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Variables and Equations)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1PR3 Continued
Achievement Indicator:

1PR3.3 Determine if two given Line up students in two unequal groups. The groups could represent
concrete sets are equal or unequal, the number of boys and number of girls in the class or the groups could
and explain the process used. represent two teams. Students from each group line up across from each
other, showing one to one correspondence. The group that has students
left over is the larger group and the number representing it is the greater
number. Give examples where both groups are equal as well. Repeat
with different groupings of students.
The interpretation of simple bar graphs is another way in which
students may demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of equality
and inequality. For example, students could indicate the way they come
to school by placing a cube on the tower that represents their means of
getting to school. By observing the towers, students should determine if
the sets are equal or unequal.

1PR4 Record equalities, using the When students begin the study of equality, it is important for them to
equal symbol (0 to 20) see that the equal sign represents a relation, not an operation. It tells
[C, CN, PS, V] us that the quantity on the left is the same as the quantity on the right.
Students should see the symbol as a way of communicating what they
know about the relationship. Using the words the same as for the equal
sign will help them further understand this relation.
Achievement Indicator:
1PR4.1 Represent a given
Provide students with task cards showing pictures of given equalities
equality, using manipulatives or
using the equal sign. Students should use a variety of manipulatives to
pictures.
represent equalities by making sets.

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 REPRESENTING NUMBERS TO 20

General Outcome: Represent Algebraic Expressions in Multiple Ways

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide students with two bags of counters and ask them to Lesson 11 (Continued): More,
determine if the sets are equal or unequal and to explain how they Fewer or the Same
know.
1N5, 1PR3, 1PR4
(1PR3.3)
TG pp. 50 - 53
• Prepare two sets of cards, one set containing numerals 11-20,
the other set displaying pictures of 11-20 objects. Students are
given a numeral or picture card and are to find a partner with the
corresponding card. In their math journals, students will record the
equalities using the equal sign.
Unit Centre:
TG p. 15
Dare to Compare
(1PR4.1)

Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 71

 Patterning

Suggested Time: 2 Weeks

This is the first explicit focus on patterning, but as with other outcomes,
it is ongoing throughout the year.
PATTERNING

Unit Overview
Focus and Context In Grade One, students are formally introduced to repeating patterns
of two to four elements. They learn that repeating patterns can be
represented in a variety of ways using a variety of materials, sounds,
movements or visuals. Students verbalize and communicate rules
to help them understand the predictability of a pattern. As students
have more experiences with this, they will begin to understand that
the patterns exist all around us and can be used to solve a variety
of everyday problems. In Kindergarten, students were exposed to
repeating patterns of two to three elements. This patterning concept
is essential to help students understand repeating patterns as they
continue to study patterning up to four elements in Grade One.
Students will continue working with repeating patterns, extending their
knowledge to include five elements and will explore increasing patterns
in Grade Two.

Math Connects Through working with patterns, students learn to see relationships
and make connections, generalizations, and predictions about the
world around them. These experiences are important in all aspects
of mathematics at this age. Looking for patterns is natural for young
children. Even before Kindergarten, students develop concepts related
to patterns, functions and algebra. They learn predictable poems,
repetitive songs, and rhythmic chants that are based on repeating
patterns. Patterns can be extended and described with both words and
symbols. The same pattern can be found in many different forms.
Patterns are found in physical and geometric situations, as well as in
numbers. Pattern experiences at this grade level will give students the
opportunity to explore repeating patterns. It is these experiences that
are the foundation of the development of algebraic thinking that will be
built upon during the year.

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 PATTERNING

Process Standards
[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving
Key [CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Curriculum STRAND OUTCOME PROCESS

Outcomes STANDARDS
1PR1 Demonstrate
an understanding of
repeating patterns (two
to four elements) by:
• describing
Patterns and
• reproducing
Relations [C, PS, R, V]
• extending
(Patterns)
• creating
patterns using
manipulatives,
pictures, sounds and
actions.
1PR2 Translate
Patterns and
repeating patterns from
Relations [C, CN, R, V]
one representation to
(Patterns)
another.

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PATTERNING

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Patterns)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1PR1 Demonstrate an Pattern experiences should be an ongoing part of Math throughout the
understanding of repeating year. Students should begin the year interpreting patterns using a variety
patterns (two to four elements) of manipulatives. Suggested manipulatives for creating patterns include:
by:
• connecting cubes
• describing
• rubber stamps and adding machine paper rolls
• reproducing • stickers
• extending • color tiles
• creating • link its
patterns using manipulatives, • pattern Blocks
pictures, sounds and actions. • collections (each collection should consist of 60 – 100
[C, PS, R, V] • small items of one kind, such as bread tags, buttons, shells, small
plastic animals, etc.)
• two-color counters

Students should have many opportunities to work with these materials

before using materials, such as attribute blocks, that have more than one
visible attribute.
Young students first need to experience repeating patterns in a variety
of different ways. They need both teacher-directed and independent
activities. Teacher-directed activities should encourage students to
analyze a variety of patterns. Independent activities provide students
with the opportunity to explore, reproduce, extend, and create patterns
appropriate to their level of understanding. Examples of patterns young
students should describe, reproduce, extend, and create include:
Rhythmic/Sound patterns
e.g., clap, snap, clap, snap, clap, snap, …
Action pattern
e.g., sit, sit, stand, sit, sit, stand, sit, sit, stand, …
Color patterns
e.g. red, red, yellow, red, red, yellow, red, red, yellow, …
Shape patterns
e.g., circle, square, triangle, circle, square, triangle,…
Patterns of attributes
e.g., using buttons: four holes, two holes, four holes, two holes, …
Patterns of size
e.g., long, long, short, short, long, long, short, short, long, …
Number patterns
e.g., 1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3, …

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 PATTERNING

General Outcome: Use Patterns to Describe the World and to Solve Problems

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• In circle time or when lining up, begin a repeating pattern using the Launch
children (e.g., sit, stand, sit, stand, …, boy, boy, girl, girl, boy, boy, Teacher Guide (TG) p. 9
girl, girl …, etc). Ask students to describe and extend the pattern.
Have students take turns creating and extending other repeating Lesson 1: Recognize and Copy
patterns. (1PR1.1, 1.4, 1.5) a Pattern
1PR1
TG pp. 10 - 13
• Ask students to repeat a rhythmic pattern presented to them (e.g.,
clap, clap, stamp, clap, clap, stamp, clap, clap, stamp . . .). (1PR1.1) Audio CD 1:
Selections 1, 2, 3 & 4
• Create a Border – Provide students with 2 to 4 rubber stamps and
ask them to create a patterned border around the edge of a picture
frame, place mat, or a piece of paper. Have them describe their
patterns to the class. (1PR1.4)

• Have students brainstorm events that occur during each school day
(e.g., I eat breakfast. I go to school. I go home from school. I eat
supper.) Ask students to illustrate each of the events in the order
they occur. (1PR1.7)

• Use connecting cubes to create a color pattern with one element

missing (e.g., red, yellow, green, red, yellow, green, red yellow, green,
red, ___, green). Ask :
• Are there colors missing?
• What color is missing from the pattern? How do you know?
Repeat using other patterns. Objects, such as attribute blocks, with
more than one visible attribute may be used. (1PR1.3)

• Have students look at a repeating visual pattern, or listen to a

repeating sound pattern, that contains an error or omission. Ask
students to correct the error or omission and explain how they know.
(1PR1.3, 1.3)

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PATTERNING

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Patterns)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1PR1 Continued

Achievement Indicators:
Students should be given the opportunity to describe patterns orally, as
PR1.1 Describe a given repeating
it helps them interpret the patterns they experience visually and solidify
pattern containing two to four
their understanding of the concept. It also allows other students to learn
elements in its core.
from each other.
The core of a repeating pattern is the shortest string of elements that
repeats. For example, the color pattern, red, yellow, green, red, yellow,
green, …, has a core of three different elements that repeat over and
over. The pattern, red, red, yellow, yellow, red, red, yellow, yellow…, is
also a four element pattern even though the elements are repeated. It is
important to repeat the core of the pattern at least three times before
expecting students to describe, reproduce, or extend a pattern.

PR1.5 Reproduce and extend When presenting a pattern for students to reproduce or extend, repeat
a given repeating pattern using the core three times (e.g., red, red, blue, red, red, blue, red, red, blue,...).
manipulatives, diagrams, sounds As students become more efficient reproducing and extending patterns,
and actions. repeat the core three times and begin the fourth repetition (e.g., red,
red, blue, red, red, blue, red, red, blue, red, …). Observe whether the
student is able to continue the pattern from the last element given or
repeats the entire core.

1PR1.6 Describe, using every Patterning becomes more meaningful to students when it is evident in
day language, a repeating pattern many areas of their daily life (e.g., clothing, signs, food packages, etc).
in the environment, e.g., in the Ask students to look for and describe patterns in the classroom and/or
classroom, outdoors. outdoors.

1PR1.7 Identify repeating events; Students should recognize that there are many patterns that occur in
e.g., days of the week, birthdays, cycles such as the seasons, the days of the week, the months of the year,
seasons. and some daily routines. The exploration of repeating events can be
experienced during morning calendar routines ongoing throughout the
school year.

1PR1.2 Identify and describe

errors in a given repeating Provide students with repeating patterns containing two to four
pattern. elements in which there are errors or missing elements. Ask students to
identify the errors or omissions in the repeating patterns.
1PR1.3 Identify and describe
the missing element(s) in a given
repeating pattern.

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 PATTERNING

General Outcome: Use Patterns to Describe the World and to Solve Problems

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance
• Patterning Ourselves – Choose one student to go to the far side of Math Makes Sense 1
the room. Instruct the student to turn away from the group and Lesson 1 (Continued):
cover his/her ears. Have the remainder of the group form a circle Recognize and Copy a Pattern
or a line. Begin a people pattern by directing the students to do a 1PR1
particular action. Point to each student in order, as you say:
TG pp. 10 - 13
“hands up, hands up, hands down, hands down, hands up,
hands up, hands down, hands down . . .”
After the core has been repeated three times make an error in the Unit Centres:
pattern (e.g., hands up, hands up, hands up, hands down). Ask the TG p. 7
students to return to the group and identify the error in the pattern
and explain how they know. Repeat this task leaving a gap in the Paper Plate Garden
pattern and asking the student to identify the missing element and
explaining how they know. (1PR1.2, 1.3)

Presentation
• Say, “I made a pattern with red and green cubes and then it fell
apart.” This is what’s left (show a piece of a pattern). Ask students to
use cubes to show what the pattern might have looked like. Working
with a partner, have students create possible patterns which may
contain a different number of elements in its core. Ask students to
present their patterns to the class. (1PR 1.1, 1.4, 1.5)

• Take students on a walk around the inside and outside of the school
looking for patterns. Students can draw a pattern they found and
describe the pattern to a classmate. (1PR1.6)

Student-Teacher Dialogue
• Provide students with a pattern of linking cubes (e.g., red, green,
green, red, green, green, red, green, green). This task involves
describing a three element pattern using objects with one attribute
(color). Ask students to describe the pattern, using color words. This
task can be repeated with patterns with two to four elements in its
core. (1PR 1.1)
• Display a collection of objects from the environment, some with
visible patterns and some without. Discuss each object by naming it
and observing its features. Ask:
• Did anyone see an object with a pattern? How do you know?
• Did anyone see an object that did not have a pattern? How do
you know? (1PR1.6)

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PATTERNING

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Patterns)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1PR1 Continued
Achievement Indicators:

PR1.5 Reproduce and extend

a given repeating pattern using
manipulatives, diagrams, sounds
and actions.

1PR1.4 Create and describe a Students should be encouraged to create and describe patterns as
repeating pattern, using a variety soon as they have an understanding of what patterns are. By changing
of manipulatives, diagrams, the number of elements presented in teacher-directed lessons and
sounds and actions. independent activities, students working at all levels can be supported
and challenged.

A Patterning Learning Center will give children opportunities to

make patterns on an informal and independent basis. The choice of
manipulatives can affect the difficulty of the task. Connecting cubes and
color tiles are the easiest manipulatives from which children can make
patterns, as they have only one visible attribute.

Problem Solving Student’s surroundings contain many patterns such as their clothing,
in structures and buildings, and the classroom. Mathematics is full of
patterns. Students can look for patterns to help them solve problems.

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 PATTERNING

General Outcome: Use Patterns to Describe the World and to Solve Problems

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide students with a variety of manipulatives and ask them to Lesson 2: Make and Extend a
create and describe a repeating pattern. Ask another student to Pattern
extend the pattern that has been created. (1PR1.4, 1.5) 1PR1
TG pp. 14 - 17

• Make One Like Mine – Use pattern blocks to create a repeating

pattern on the overhead projector. Ask the students to reproduce and Unit Centres:
extend the pattern on their desks. (1PR1.5)
TG p. 7

• Color Towers – Use interlocking cubes to create a tower with a Pattern Cards
repeating pattern. Ask students to extend the pattern to determine
the color of the 11th cube. (1PR1.5)

• Show students a snap cube train with a simple AB colour pattern. Lesson 3: Strategies Toolkit
Patterns must have three repeats. Have them find (E.g., red, blue, TG pp. 18 - 19
red, blue) and extend the pattern. What colour comes next? This can
be modified to include more complex patterns to meet the students’
instructional needs.
(KPR1.5)

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PATTERNING

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Patterns)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1PR2 Translate repeating Students should recognize many different forms of the same pattern.
patterns from one representation They need to see that patterns constructed with different materials are
to another. the same pattern. Translating two or more alike patterns (e.g., snap, clap,
snap, clap, snap, clap… and red, green, red, green red, green …) to a
[C, CN, R, V]
common format (e.g., ABABAB) helps children see beyond the materials
making up the pattern. Using some form of symbolism (in this case
the letter code, ABABAB) to represent the structure of a pattern is the
Achievement Indicators: beginning of algebraic reasoning.
When given a repeating pattern, students should represent that pattern
1PR2.1 Represent a given
using another form of pattern described in PR1.1 (i.e. rhythmic/sound
repeating pattern, using another
patterns, action patterns, color patterns, shape patterns, patterns of
mode; e.g., actions to sound,
attributes, patterns of size, and number patterns). For example, if
colour to shape, ABC ABC to
students are given the repeating rhythmic pattern - clap, clap, snap,
moose, puffin, bear, moose puffin
clap, clap, snap . . . they may represent the pattern in other forms such
bear.
as a color pattern (e.g., red, red, yellow, red, red, yellow …) or a shape
pattern (e.g., square, square, triangle, square, square, triangle…).
Repeating patterns are sometimes described using a letter code.
1PR2.2 Describe a given
Labeling patterns with ABC helps students name and compare patterns.
repeating pattern, using a letter
code; e.g., ABC ABC, … Use interlocking cubes to represent a two-element repeating pattern.
(e.g., red, yellow, red, yellow, red, yellow). With the students, describe
the pattern using a letter code (e.g., ABABAB). Repeat using two
different colors of interlocking cubes. Draw student’s attention to the
fact that although different colors have been used, the letter code has not
changed. Extend these activities to include repeating patterns with a core
of three and four different elements.
Students should be provided with many experiences describing repeating
patterns using letters. It is important to use many forms of patterns
containing two to four elements such as AB, AAB, ABB, ABC, AABB,
and other combinations, so students realize they do not always have to
make the same pattern. E.g.,

82 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 PATTERNING

General Outcome: Use Patterns to Describe the World and to Solve Problems

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance
• During Circle Time, spread out the connecting cubes on the floor so Math Makes Sense 1
that all students have access to them. Begin by acting out a rhythmic Lesson 4: Translate a Pattern
pattern and have students join in (e.g., clap, slap, slap, clap, slap, 1PR1, 1PR2
slap, clap, slap, slap…). Once they are able to copy the pattern,
stop the actions and ask the students to use the connecting cubes to TG: pp. 14 - 17
represent the same pattern. (1PR2.1)

• Provide a collection of manipulatives and task cards of pattern-train Unit Centres

outlines. For example: TG: p. 7
R G Y R G Y R G Y Treasure Boxes
Have the students choose a card and use the manipulatives to Stamp It
reproduce and extend the pattern shown. Ask another student to
represent the same pattern using different manipulatives. (1PR2.1)

• Provide students with pattern cards. E.g.,

Ask children to use buttons or blocks to represent and extend the

patterns. Students then label the patterns using a letter code.
(1PR2.1, 2.2)
• Sing the song “Old MacDonald had a Farm”. Have the students
make sound patterns (e.g., woof-woof-oink-woof-woof –oink).
Record these patterns on a chart. Ask students to translate the
pattern into a colour pattern using interlocking cubes. Ask, What
colour cube would you like for the dog sound? How many cubes
will we need each time we come to that sound? Choose one student
to translate the pattern using a letter code (e.g., AABAAB). Have
students look at their own patterns and see if there is another pattern
on the chart similar to theirs. Students may sort the patterns based
on their letter codes. (1PR2.1, 2.2)

• Begin a rhythmic pattern (e.g., clap, snap, clap, snap, clap, snap, …).
Ask the students to extend the pattern and label it, while performing
the actions, using a letter code. Repeat using other modes of
patterns. (1PR2.2)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 83

Addition and Subtraction to 12

Suggested Time: 5 Weeks

This is the first explicit focus on addition and subtraction, but as

with other outcomes, it is ongoing throughout the year.
ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

Unit Overview
Focus and Context In Grade One, students will have many opportunities to develop
a strong sense of numbers to 20. As they develop number sense,
students simultaneously build their understanding of the operations
for addition and subtraction. This occurs naturally as students count
and compare numbers in everyday situations. The focus of this unit
is to provide meaningful learning so students will be able to see the
connection between the process of addition and subtraction and the
world they live in. They will have opportunities to act out problems
and use a variety of mainipulatives to develop an understanding of these
processes of addition and subtraction. Both mathematical language
and every day language should by used when presenting problems to
students. As they think about number problems involving addition
and subtraction, young students devise personal strategies to compute.
Through discussion and explanation, students will refine their
strategies for addition and subtraction and deepen their understanding
of number operations. It is with this understanding that students
are then introduced to the symbols used to represent the processes.
Symbolic tasks should not be presented in isolation, nor should they
be emphasized until after the addition and subtraction processes have
been modeled using real life problem solving. Students must be given
sufficient time and opportunity to internalize the concepts. The equal
sign will be introduced using a balance scale and the symbol must be
thought of as a relationship, not an operation. In this unit, students
will work with numbers to 12, laying the foundation for future work in
the unit Addition and Subtraction to 20.

Math Connects Work on number and computation should occur throughout the year
and not in isolated parts. Students need experiences where they see
how number and computation can be used on a daily basis in different
forms. This can be done through cross-curricular activities, as a part
of a morning routine or through informal lessons. Doing this, will
provide students with different opportunities throughout the entire
year to develop this essential understanding; it gives everyone a chance
to learn. It is essential to give students meaningful contexts to learn,
showing them real life situations where computational skills are needed
to solve a problem.

Process Standards [C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

Key [CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

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 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

Curriculum STRAND OUTCOME PROCESS

Outcomes STANDARDS
1N3 Demonstrate an understanding of
counting by:
• indicating that the last number said

identifies “how many”
Number [C, CN, ME, R, V]
• showing that any set has only one count
• using the counting-on strategy
• using parts or equal groups to count
sets.
1N4 Represent and describe numbers to 20,
Number [C, CN, V]
concretely, pictorially and symbolically.
1N8 Identify the number, up to 20, that is
Number one more, two more, one less and two less [C, CN, ME, R, V]
than a given number.
1N9 Demonstrate an understanding of
addition of numbers with answers to 20
and their corresponding subtraction facts,
concretely, pictorially and symbolically, by:
• using familiar and mathematical
language to describe additive and
subtractive actions from their personal
experience [C, CN, ME, PS, R,
Number
V]
• creating and solving problems in
context that involve addition and
subtraction
• modelling addition and subtraction,
using a variety of concrete and visual
representations, and recording the process
symbolically.
1N10 Describe and use mental mathematics
strategies (memorization not intended), such
as:
• counting on and counting back
• making 10 [C, CN, ME, PS,
Number
R, V]
• using doubles
• using addition to subtract
to determine the basic addition facts to 18
and related subtraction facts.
Patterns and 1PR4 Record equalities, using the equal
Relations symbol (0 to 20)
[C, CN, PS, V]
(Variables and
Equations)

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ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N3 Demonstrate an Students should have a good understanding of number (N3, N4) before
understanding of counting by: beginning Addition and Subtraction to 12.

• indicating that the last

number said identifies
“how many”
• showing that any set has
only one count
• using the counting-on
strategy
• using parts or equal groups
to count sets
[C, CN, ME, R, V]

1N4 Represent and describe

numbers to 20, concretely,
pictorially and symbolically.

[C, CN, V]

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 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Math Makes Sense 1

Launch
Teacher Guide (TG) p. 15

Consider reviewing Representing

Numbers to 20 (Lesson 6) TG pp.
36-39

Lesson 1: Different Combinations

of a Number
1N3, 1N4
TG pp. 16 - 20

Unit Centres: Shake the Counters

TG p. 13

Audio CD 2:
Selection 6

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ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N9 Demonstrate an As with many early concepts, the development of the meaning of
understanding of addition of addition cannot be rushed. It is desirable to explore adding situations in
numbers with answers to 20 and meaningful contexts. Experiences should be provided in which students
their corresponding subtraction use a variety of concrete materials to model addition situations prior to
facts, concretely, pictorially and recording the process symbolically.
symbolically, by:

• using familiar and Students require experience interpreting how addition situations are
mathematical language portrayed in print. Include examples of:
to describe additive and
subtractive actions from • Active situations which involve the physical joining of sets.
their personal experience E.g., I had 4 pencils and my teacher gave me 3 more. How many do I
• creating and solving have now?
problems in context that
involve addition and
subtraction • Static situations involve the implied joining of sets that are not
• modeling addition and physically joined to form a whole.
subtraction, using a
variety of concrete and E.g., There are 4 cars parked on one side of the road and 3 cars parked
visual representations, on the other side of the road. Altogether, how many cars are parked on
and recording the process the road?
symbolically.
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]

Achievement Indicators:

1N9.1 Act out a given problem In joining problems there are three quantities involved: an initial
presented orally or through shared amount, a change amount (the part being added or joined), and the
reading. resulting amount (the amount after the action is over). This generates
3 types of joining problems where either the result, change or initial is
unknown. It is important to give equal opportunities for students to
1N9.3 Represent the numbers
explore all three types of joining problems.
and actions presented in a
given story problem by using
manipulatives, and record them
using sketches and/or number
sentences.

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 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Present addition stories. Have students act out the story, represent Lesson 2: Addition Stories
concretely, pictorially and/or symbolically. The following examples
1N9, PR4
may be used:
Joining Problems TG pp. 21 - 25

• Result Unknown - Sarah placed 4 pencils on the table. Stephen

placed 3 more pencils on the table. How many pencils are on the
table altogether? Audio CD 2:
• Change Unknown – Sarah placed 4 pencils on the table. Selections 8 & 9
Stephen placed some pencils on the table. There are 7 pencils
altogether. How many pencils did Stephen place on the table?
• Initial Unknown - Sarah placed some pencils on the table and
Stephen placed 3 more. There are 7 pencils altogether. How many
pencils did Sarah place on the table? (1N9.1, 9.2, 9.3)

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ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N9 Continued
Achievement Indicators:
Students need experiences where they model number stories. They can
N9.3 Represent the numbers and
take a number sentence (3 + 7) and be asked to “develop the script”
actions presented in a given story
and then act out the story. At this time students are not required to use
problem by using manipulatives,
words to record the story.
and record them using sketches
and/or number sentences. By applying their own experiences to the numbers they will create
many different scripts. Students tend to create word problems where
N9.4 Create a story problem for the result or the difference is unknown. Encourage the creation of join
addition that connects to personal and separate problems with the result, change or initial unknown,
experience, and simulate the and compare problems with the difference, larger or smaller number
action with counters. unknown.

N9.6 Create a word problem for Students need many opportunities to make connections between
a given addition or subtraction personal experiences and the symbols they represent. When recording
number sentence. addition number sentences, the use of both horizontal and vertical
representations should be encouraged to familiarize students with
both methods. Models should continue to be used as long as students
find them helpful. When students are ready to use addition symbols,
they can be introduced in the context of solving story problems.
When students become comfortable recording addition sentences, it
is important that they make connections between the equations and
the stories they represent. At this stage, students not only model and
symbolize word problems but should have practice providing a number
story when a model and/or the equations are provided.
When explaining the symbols for addition, it is important that the
addition sign be referred to as “and” rather than “plus”. The equality
sign should be referred to as “equals” or “is the same as”. Students need
to realize that the equal sign represents a balance between both sides of
the equation.

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 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Have students create their own story problems for addition and Lesson 2 (Continued): Addition
demonstrate the additive action with counters. Incorporate the use of Stories
manipulatives, such as dominoes and dice, to generate numbers for
1N9, 1PR4
story problems. (1N9.4, 9.5)
TG pp. 21 - 25

• Bean Bag Addition - Draw a line down the center of a plastic

sandwich bag. Provide students with number cards for numerals 2
to 12, 12 beans (or another manipulative) and blank pieces of paper.
Student chooses a number card and places that number of beans into
the bag and then seals the bag. The student moves the beans to either
side of the line to create a number combination, and records that
number sentence on the paper. The student continues to manipulate
the beans until he/she generates as many number sentences as they
can. (1N9.3)

• Provide story boards for students to use with manipulatives to create,

model, and solve story problems. Story boards can be created by
drawing a simple scene, such as a fence, an ocean, or a tree, on a half-
sheet of 8 ½ X 11 paper. As well, a piece of black construction paper
can be used to represent outer space or night time, sandpaper for a
beach, and blue paper for the sky. Many different problems can be
created using the same story boards. Students should share their story
problems with others and record the corresponding number sentence
for each of their problems. (1N9.4, 9.5, 9.7)

• Have students use the overhead, whiteboard, felt board, counters,

etc., to create story problems for a variety of addition and subtraction
number sentences. (1N9.6)

• Double Dice - Students roll two dice and create a word problem to
match the two numbers shown. They can develop a subtraction or
addition problem. (Dominoes can be used instead of dice.) (1N9.6)

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ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Variables and Equations)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
PR4 Record equalities, using the When students begin the study of equality, it is important for them to
equal symbol (0 to 20) see that the equal sign represents a relation, not an operation. It tells
us that the quantity on the left is the same as the quantity on the right.
[C, CN, PS, V] Students should see the symbol as a way of communicating what they
know about the relationship. Using the words “is the same as” for the
equal sign will help them further understand this relation.

Achievement Indicators:
Provide students with task cards showing given equalities using the equal
PR4.1 Represent a given equality,
sign. Examples of task cards at various levels of complexity include:
using manipulatives or pictures.
8=8
PR4.2 Represent a given pictorial 5+3=8
or concrete equality in symbolic
form. 5+3=6+2
Students should use a variety of manipulatives to represent the equality
by making sets to show each side of the equal symbol. For example:

5+3=8

5+3=6+2

As students develop confidence with this concept, they may move on to

represent the equalities using pictures.

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 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

General Outcome: Represent Algebraic Expressions in Multiple Ways

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Show students a balance scale with an equal number of snap cubes Lesson 2 (Continued): Addition
on each side. The snap cubes may be of two colors to represent parts Stories
of a number on the either side of the balance.
1N9, 1PR4
TG pp. 21 - 25

(1PR4.2)

• Students should represent the following equations using two colors

of snap cubes:
• 8=8
• 8=5+3
• 5+3=8
• 5+3=2+6 (1PR4.2)

• Show the students two number trains: one train with 6 red and 1
green and the other with 4 red and 3 green.
Students should represent the trains in symbolic form: e.g.,

7 = 7
6 + 1 = 4 + 3
6 + 1 = 7
7 = 4 + 3 (1PR4.2)

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Strand: Patterns and Relations (Variables and Equations)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1PR4 Continued

Achievement Indicators:

PR4.4 Record different Working with number combinations to 10 is critical for children in
representations of the same building a strong foundation for working with larger numbers. Begin
quantity (0 to 20) as equalities working with number combinations to 6. Do not move on to numbers
from 7 to 10 until children have a strong understanding of numbers to
6.
When a child can confidently break up a number to 10 and put the
parts together again, then they will be able to work with larger numbers.

Memorizing basic math facts is very different from internalizing number

combinations.

Introducing the recording of number combinations should be done in

PR4.3 Provide examples of
three stages. In the first stage, the teacher models the recording of the
equalities where the given sum or
number combinations where the sum is on either the left or right side
difference is on either the left or
of the equal sign. In the second stage, the students record the number
right side of the equal symbol (=).
combinations by copying what the teacher has written. In the final
stage, students record the number combinations independently.

Students should read number sentences from left to right and from right
to left.

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General Outcome: Represent Algebraic Expressions in Multiple Ways

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Students sit in a circle. Each student is given a train of the specified Lesson 2 (Continued): Addition
number (e.g., 6) of cubes of one color. On the signal, “break it” Stories
children will break their train into two parts and hold one part in
1N9, 1PR4
each hand behind their back. Students may choose not to break
their train apart and keep the train in one hand to represent the TG pp. 21 - 25
combination using 0.
Going around the circle, each student takes a turn showing first what
is in one hand and then what is in the other. The other students say
Unit Centres:
the number combination shown. (e.g., 4 and 2, 5 and 1 …) When
everyone has had a turn, repeat the activity several times modeling TG p. 13
the recording of the equation. (1PR4.4) Addition Stories

Paper and Pencil

• Provide students with snap cubes and number-train outlines for
a specified number. Students snap together as many different
combinations of cubes of two colors for the specified number. They
record their work by coloring the individual outlines cut from the
sheet to match the number- trains they have created. The outlines
are stapled together as a book and students write an equation for
each combination. (1PR4.4) 1PR4.3 is not covered by the text.

• Provide students with a number train that represents 7. The number

train could be 3 red cubes and 4 blue cubes.
Ask students to represent the number train using numbers. Their
answers may look like this:

4 + 3 = 7 or 7 = 4 + 3

Ensure that students learn to read number sentences from left to

right and right to left. (1PR4.3)

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Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N10 Describe and use When students’ thinking has developed to the point where they are
mental mathematics strategies counting on from the large number, strategy learning should begin.
(memorization not intended), Students should be encouraged to use the relationships between facts to
such as: learn new facts, rather than counting to compute sums or differences.
For example, if students want to add 4 + 3 and know that 3 + 3 = 6,
• counting on and counting
they might think that 4 + 3 is one more than 3 + 3, so it must be 7.
back
• making 10
• using doubles
• using addition to subtract
to determine the basic
addition facts to 18 and related
subtraction facts.
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]
Achievement Indicators:
Students will construct number relationships by making connections
1N10.1 Use and describe a with prior knowledge. These relationships will lead to the development
personal strategy for determining of patterns that students will be able to access to recall number facts.
a given sum. If we focus on over-practicing or rote practicing without ensuring
that students understand the process, they often forget or incorrectly
remember computational methods. It is not intended that students
recall the basic facts but become familiar with the strategies to mentally
determine sums and differences. Students need many rich experiences
to explore strategies concretely and pictorially as this will lead to an
understanding that all of the facts are conceptually related. As students
develop and share strategies for addition and subtraction, they become
more comfortable with numbers, develop flexibility when thinking
about numbers, and become more fluent in computing.

When engaging in mental math activities students should be given

opportunities to:
• Develop their own strategies for determining a given sum or
difference
• Invent strategies for solving problems that include making doubles,
making 10, using compensation (using addition to solve subtraction
problems) and using known facts.
• Employ as many representations as possible for determining sums
and differences, including physically acting out.

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General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Student-Teacher Dialogue Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide students with addition sentences and ask them to explain the Lesson 3: Using Doubles to Add
strategy they used to find the given sum.
1N9, 1N10
Observe whether the student:
• begins counting at one TG pp. 26 - 29
• counts on from the larger or smaller number
• can communicate the strategy used
• can solve any of the problems without needing to figure them out
The text focuses on doubles.
(e.g., using doubles, one more, sum to 5)
• is confident in their answer (1N10.1, 10.2) Attention needs to be given to all the
strategies.

Performance
• Simon Says – Play the game Simon Says, giving directions that
involve using strategies to solve a mathematical equation. Examples
include: Simon says:
o Do 7 and 6 more jumping jacks
o Do 7 and 7 and 1 more bunny hops
o Do 5 and 3 toe touches
Students solve the additive action mentally, explain the strategy they
used, and complete the action. (1N10.1, 10.2, 10.3)

• Give students a bag with 8 counters and have them remove some
of the counters. Ask: “How many are still in the bag? How do you
know?” Repeat using other numbers. (1N10.1, 10.2, 10.3)

• Think About It! – Provide students with a number of scenarios in

which they visualize the action that is taking place and mentally solve
each problem.
• If I put 5 counters in the bag and then added 3 more, how
many counters would be in the bag? How do you know?
(1N10.1, 10.2, 10.3)

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Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N10 Continued

Achievement Indicator:
1N10.1 Continued An addition table might be useful to help students visualize
relationships. For example, all the sums for 4 can be found by taking a
known fact (e.g., 4 + 0 = 4) and reducing one number while the other is
increased (e.g., 3 + 1 = 4). Notice that all of these are along a diagonal of
the table.

The use of strategies provide a foundation for mental mathematics.

Solving problems mentally provides opportunities for students to focus
on the relationships between numbers and operations.
Some students will be able to respond instantly when an addition or
subtraction fact is presented. Others will need an extra few seconds in
order to use a strategy to find the answer. Eventually, it is helpful to
the student to have instant recall, but it is not essential that all facts be
recalled in Grade 1.
By using facts frequently in games and problems, most students will
commit them to memory.

Problem Solving The student makes a guess and checks to see if they are correct. If it
does not work they revise their initial guess based on what was tried and
• Guess and Check learned. This continues until the correct answer is found. Students do
not like to be wrong, therefore it is important to be cognizant of your
language and not refer to a guess as incorrect or correct. It is important
that they learn to be risk takers and learn from the initial guess.
Place 14 snap cubes of the same color in a paper bag. Reach in and
remove 5 cubes. Ask students: If I had 14 cubes in the bag and I took out
5, how many are left in the bag? Students guess 6. On a chart or white
board write 5 + 6 = 11. That is a great guess but was there more or less
than 11 in the bag? Let’s try again. Students guess 9. Write 5 + 9 = 14.
That is the number we were looking for. So there are 9 cubes still in the
bag. Count the remaining cubes in the bag to confirm the guess.

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General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Cover Up – Prepare a variety of 3 X 3 cards with the numbers 0 to Lesson 3 (Continued): Using
20. Call out addition and subtraction facts where students use their Doubles to Add
mental strategies to solve. E.g.
6 9 15 1N9, 1N10
• 3 and 3
12 18 1 TG pp. 26 - 29
• 7 and 7 and 1 more
2 5 10
• 10 and 5 more
Students cover the sum with a counter. The first player to cover all of
the numbers on their card is the winner. (1N10.1, 10.2, 10.3)

• Pose a task such as the following to the class: “If you did not know
the answer to 9 + 6, what are some really good strategies you can use
to get the answer?” Encourage students to come up with more than
one strategy to solve the equation. Students discuss their ideas with a
partner and then present their ideas to the class. (1N10.1, 10.3)

• Pick up Stacks - Show the student five stacks of snap cubes of

different colour and amounts.

Ask: Can you pick up 4 (5 or 6)?

The Student may pick up more than one stack at a time to represent
the number. Ask the student to explain the strategy they used.
An an extension of this activity, you could ask the student to make Lesson 4: Strategy Toolkit
another combination of the same number using the remaining stacks
or the original configuration of stacks. (1N10.1) TG pp. 30 - 31

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Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N9 Demonstrate an As with addition, the development of the meaning of subtraction
understanding of addition of cannot be rushed. Students should be provided ample opportunity
numbers with answers to 20 and to use concrete materials to model subtraction prior to recording it
their corresponding subtraction symbolically.
facts, concretely, pictorially and
symbolically, by: Students require experience interpreting how subtraction situations are
portrayed in print. Include examples of:
• using familiar and • Active situations which involve the physical separating of sets.
mathematical language
to describe additive and I had 8 pencils. I gave 4 of them to my friend. How many do I have left?
subtractive actions from
their personal experience
• creating and solving • Static situations involve the implied separating of sets that are not
problems in context that physically joined to form a whole.
involve addition and There are 7 red and green cars parked on the road. Four of them are
subtraction red. How many cars are green? (In this situation, the group or the whole
• modeling addition and remains the same, nothing is added or taken away, we are looking to
subtraction, using a find the 2 parts that make up the whole)
variety of concrete and
visual representations,
and recording the process
symbolically.
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]

Achievement Indicators:
N9.1 Act out a given problem As with joining problems, separating problems have three quantities:
presented orally or through shared initial, change, and result amounts. In separate problems, the initial
reading. amount is the largest amount. Addition and subtraction cannot be
simply defined as “put together” and “take away”. Students need
N9.3 Represent the numbers and opportunities to be exposed to all structures of problems: result
actions presented in a given story unknown, change unknown, and initial unknown.
problem by using manipulatives,
and record them using sketches
and/or number sentences.

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General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Present subtraction stories for each structure. Have students act out Lesson 5: Subtraction Stories
the problem and represent the problem concretely, pictorially and/or
1N9, 1PR4
symbolically.
Separate Problems TG pp. 32 - 36

• Result Unknown – Five children are sitting on the story mat.

Two children left the circle to go back to their seats. How many
children stayed on the mat?
• Change Unknown – Five children are sitting on the story mat.
Some of the children left the circle to go back to their seats. There
are three children left sitting on the mat. How many children went
back to their seats?
• Initial Unknown - Some children are sitting on the story mat.
Two children left the circle to go back to their seats and there are 3
children left sitting on the mat. How many children were on the mat
in the beginning?
Compare Problems
• Difference Unknown - Mark has 12 stickers. Julia has 8
stickers. How many more stickers does Mark have than Julia?
• Comparing Quantity Unknown - Mark has 4 more stickers
than Julia. Mark has 12 stickers. How many stickers does Julia have?
• Referent Quantity Unknown - Mark has 4 more stickers than
Julia. Julia has 8 stickers. How many stickers does Mark have?
(1N9.1, 9.2, 9.3)

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Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N9 Continued

Achievement Indicators:

1N9.5 Create a story problem In each of the structures, keep in mind that there may be several
for subtraction that connects to interpretations to a situation. For example: There are 9 children. Three
personal experience, and simulate are boys. How many are girls? Some students see this as an addition.
the action with counters. (Three “and” how many more make 9?). Others see it as a subtraction.
(There are 9 in all. Remove the 3 boys. How many girls would be
left?) Some students might think of a subtraction sentence (9 - 3 = 6),
1N9.6 Create a word problem for
whereas others might think of an addition sentence (6 + 3 = 9). Students
a given addition or subtraction
should be aware that every time they encounter either an addition or a
number sentence.
subtraction situation, the other operation is implicit.

While addition always relates to the combining of things, subtraction

is much more complex and is not simply the opposite of addition. In
its simplest form subtraction is the taking away or separating of objects.
In its more complex forms, subtraction is what allows us to compare
two quantities or to find a missing addend. It is important that students
realize the connections between subtraction as taking away, subtraction
as comparing, and subtraction as missing addend.

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General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Have students create their own story problems for subtraction and Lesson 5 (Continued):
demonstrate the subtractive action with counters. Incorporate the use Subtraction Stories
of manipulatives, such as dominoes and dice, to generate numbers
1N9, 1PR4
for story problems. (1N9.4, 9.5)
TG pp. 32 - 36

• Provide story boards for students to use with manipulatives to create,

model, and solve story problems. Story boards can be created by
drawing a simple scene, such as a fence, an ocean, or a tree, on a half-
sheet of 8 ½ X 11 paper. As well, a piece of black construction paper
can be used to represent outer space or night time, sandpaper for a
beach, and blue paper for the sky. Many different problems can be
created using the same story boards. Students should share their story
problems with others and record the corresponding number sentence
for each of their problems. (1N9.4, 9.5, 9.7, 1PR4.1, 4.2)

• Have students use the overhead, whiteboard, felt board, counters,

etc., to create word problems for a variety of subtraction number
sentences. (1N9.6)

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ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Variables and Equations)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1PR4 Continued
Achievement Indicators:
1PR4.1 Represent a given When recording subtraction number sentences, the use of both
equality using manipulatives or horizontal and vertical representations should be encouraged to
pictures. familiarize students with both methods. Models should continue to be
used as long as students find them helpful. When students are ready
1PR4.2 Represent a given to use subtraction symbols, they can be introduced in the context of
pictorial or concrete equality in solving story problems. When students become comfortable recording
symbolic form. subtraction sentences, it is important that they make connections
between the equations and the stories they represent. At this stage,
1PR4.3 Provide examples of students not only model and symbolize word problems but should have
equalities where the given sum or practice providing a number story when a model and/or the equations
difference is on either the left or are provided.
right side of the equal symbol (=). When explaining the symbols for subtraction it is important that the
minus sign be referred to as “minus” or “subtract” rather than “take
away”. Students need to realize that the equal sign represents a balance
between both sides of the equation.

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General Outcome: Represent Algebraic Expressions in Multiple Ways

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Paper and Pencil Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide students with a number train that represents 7. The number Lesson 5 (Continued):
train could be 3 red cubes and 4 blue cubes. Subtraction Stories
Ask students to show this using numbers. Their answers may look 1N9, 1PR4
like this:
TG pp. 32 - 36

7 - 4 = 3 or 3 = 7 - 4

Unit Centres:
Ensure that students learn to read number sentences from left to
TG p. 13
right. (1PR4.2, 4.3)
Make a Number Fact

1PR4.3 is not covered by the text.

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ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 12

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N10 Describe and use Mental Mathematics strategies allow students to make sense of
mental mathematics strategies algorithms. They need to become flexible in working with numbers
(memorization not intended), and operations. Before memorizing facts, students must have many
such as: opportunities to use concrete materials and mental math strategies to see
number relations.
• counting on and counting
back
• making 10 When engaging in mental math activities students should be given
• using doubles opportunities to:
• using addition to subtract
• Develop their own strategies for determining a given sum or
to determine the basic
difference
addition facts to 18 and related
subtraction facts. • Invent strategies for solving problems that include making doubles,
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V] making 10, using compensation (using addition to solve subtraction
problems) and using known facts.
• Employ as many representations as possible for determining sums
Achievement Indicators: and differences, including physically acting out.
1N10.1 Use and describe a Addition Strategy Explanation and Example
personal strategy for determining Counting on This strategy is used for adding one or two
a given sum. to a given number.
7 + 2 = __ think 7... 8, 9
Making ten When presented with a more difficult
equation, 8 + 4, think 8 + 2 is 10 and 2
more is 12
Using doubles Add two of the same number together 5 +
5 = 10

1N10.2 Use and describe a Subtraction Strategy Explanation and Example

personal strategy for determining Counting On Start with the number you are subtracting
a given difference. and count on to the other number: 11 - 8
think 8... 9, 10, 11 the answer would be
1N10.3 Refine personal strategies 3 because we counted 3 numbers
to increase their efficiency.
Counting Back Start with the minuend (larger number) and
count back: 8 - 2 think 8... 7, 6 the answer
is 6
Doubles We have 12 - 6 think 6 + 6
Using Addition to We see 7 - 5, we think of the related addition
Subtract fact 5 + 2 = 7 so 7 - 5 = 2

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General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Student-Teacher Dialogue Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide students with subtraction sentences and ask them to explain Lesson 6: Another Way to Use
the strategy they used to find the given difference. Subtraction
Observe whether the student: 1N9, 1N10
• count on from the smaller number TG pp. 37 - 40
• count back from the larger number
• can communicate the strategy used
• can solve any of the problems without needing to figure them out
(e.g., differences less than five, one-less)
• is confident in their answer (1N10.1, 10.2)

• Think About It! – Provide children with a number of scenarios in Lesson 7: Mental Math
which they visualize the action that is taking place and mentally solve 1N8, 1N9, 1N10
each problem.
TG pp. 41 - 45
If I have 12 counters in a bag and I remove 4. How many counters
remain in the bag?

Performance
• Cover Up – Prepare a variety of 3 X 3 cards with the numbers 0
to 20. Call out subtraction facts where students use their mental
strategies to solve. E.g. 6 9 15
• 10 take away 4 12 18 1
• 6 and 6 and 2 less
2 5 10
• 2 less than 9
Students cover difference with a counter. The first player to cover
all of the numbers on their card is the winner. Have students use
concrete materials to verufy their answer. (1N10.1, 10.2, 10.3)

• Pose a task such as the following to the class: If you did not know
the answer to 6 + 6, what are some really good strategies you can use
to get the answer? Encourage students to come up with more than
one strategy to solve the equation. Students discuss their ideas with a
partner and then present their ideas to the class. (1N10.1, 10.3)

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Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N9 Continued
Achievement Indicators:
1N9.2 Indicate if the scenario in When interpreting number stories, students need to make sense of the
a given story problem represents story and not just listen for key words. Therefore, present a variety of
additive or subtractive action. addition and subtraction problems, alternating mathematical terms and
everyday language. The use of everyday language helps children make
1N9.3 Represent the numbers connections between the real work and the mathematical concepts they
and actions presented in a are learning. For example:
given story problem by using
• Mathematical Language: Mary stacked 13 books on the table. She
manipulatives, and record them
added 4 more books to the stack. How many books are in the stack
using sketches and/or number
altogether?
sentences.
• Everyday Language: Mary stacked 13 books on the table. She piled 4
1N9.7 Represent a given story more books to the stack. How many books are in the stack now?
problem pictorially or symbolically
to show the additive or subtractive
action, and solve the problem

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General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Using everyday experiences and the names of your students will Lesson 8: Combining and
make math meaningful. Give students the opportunity to use pencil Separating Stories
and paper and/or manipulatives to solve everyday problems.
1N3, 1N9
• Jimmy has 12 marbles. Amy takes 7. How many marbles does
Jimmy have left? TG pp. 46 - 50
Students will represent and solve the problem pictorially and
symbolically. (1N9.2, 9.3, 9.7)
Audio CD 2:
Selection 17

Unit Centres:
TG p. 13
Toy Store

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 Measurement

Suggested Time: 4 Weeks

This is the first explicit focus on measurement, but

as with other outcomes, it is ongoing throughout the
year.
MEASUREMENT

Unit Overview
Focus and Context In this unit, students compare two or more objects using a single
attribute. In Kindergarten, children used direct comparison to compare
two objects based on a single attribute of length, mass and capacity. In
Grade One, students will compare two or more objects using a single
attribute and will expand their experiences to include area. Students
will also make statements of comparison in communicating their
understanding of measurement.

Math Connects Measurement is a fundamental mathematical process that pervades all

branches of mathematics, as well as many other disciplines and every
day activities. Early measurement experiences enable students to make
connections to their own experiences and their environment by using
concrete materials to solve real world problems. Measurement can be
easily integrated into other subject areas in the grade one curriculum,
such as social studies, science, language arts and health.

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 MEASUREMENT

Process Standards
[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving
Key [CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Curriculum STRAND OUTCOME PROCESS

Outcomes STANDARDS
1SS1 Demonstrate an
understanding of
measurement as a process
of comparing by:
• identifying attributes
Shape and Space that can be compared [C, CN, PS, R, V]
(Measurement)
• ordering objects
• making statements of
comparison
• filling, covering or
matching.
Patterns and 1PR3 Describe equality as a
Relations balance and inequality as
[C, CN, R, V]
(Variables and an imbalance, concretely
Equations) and pictorially (0 to 20).

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MEASUREMENT

Strand: Shape and Space (Measurement)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1SS1 Demonstrate an Measurement involves identifying and comparing similar attributes.
understanding of measurement as Through measurement activities students should realize that the
a process of comparing by: same object can have many measurable attributes. Students should
use terminology involving measurement including, longest, shortest,
• identifying attributes that
heaviest, lightest, most, least, etc. It is important that students explore
can be compared
measurement in context throughout each day using direct comparison.
• ordering objects
This involves students lining up items side by side to compare. In the
• making statements of
comparison development of measurement skills, students must engage in a wide
• filling, covering or variety of activities that promote measurement experiences. Students
matching. must have first hand practices to gain true understanding of this skill.
Measuring activities will enable students to better incorporate both
[C, CN, PS, R, V]
computational skills and make the connection between basic geometric
concepts and number concepts.

Achievement Indicators:

1SS1.1 Identify common Using two objects of different lengths, ask students how they would
attributes, such as length, height, compare the objects. Working with a variety of objects will allow many
mass, capacity and area that opportunities for students to compare lengths.
could be used to compare two
given objects.

1SS1.3 Compare two given Provide two books and ask students to compare the books by length.
objects, and identify the attributes Students should recognize that length tells about the extent of an object
used to compare. along one dimension. When describing measurement in one dimension
we use the term length, or linear measure. This includes measurements
of height, width, length, depth, and distance. Direct measurement
1SS1.4 Determine which of
consists of comparing lengths by lining up items side by side beginning
two or more objects is longest or
at a common base. Students should understand why a common starting
shortest by matching, and explain
point is important. Although length is usually the first attribute students
the reasoning.
learn to measure, it is not immediately understood by young children.
The students should recognize that there are certain size objects that are
best suited for measuring certain things. For example, it would not be
efficient to use a penny to measure the length of a classroom.

1SS1.2 Order a set of objects by Students should order objects from shortest to longest and shortest
length, height, mass, capacity or to tallest. Include situations in which students are dealing with an
area, and explain their ordering. extraneous variable, such as objects which are not straight and objects
which are also wide or thick.

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 MEASUREMENT

General Outcome: Use Direct or Indirect Measurement to Solve Problems

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Student-Teacher Dialogue Math Makes Sense 1

• Ask students to make two snakes using plasticine. Ask: “Which snake Launch
is longest? How do you know?” (1SS1.4) Teacher Guide (TG) p. 11

Performance Lesson 1: Comparing Lengths

• Provide students with two objects such as an eraser and a book. Ask: 1SS1
Can you tell which of these two objects is longer? (1SS1.1) TG pp. 12 - 15

• Have students work with a partner to trace and cut out their shoe Unit Centre:
print. Ask students to compare their shoe prints using lengths. TG p. 9
Repeat this activity using other objects to compare. (1SS1.3) Comparing Lengths

• Have students prepare a set of ribbons for first, second, and third
places in a race, so that the first place runner gets the longer ribbon
and the third place runner gets the shortest ribbon. (1SS1.2)

• Provide students with hands-on activities to order length and height.

Explain their reasoning. The following tasks may be used:
Length – Provide students with “trains” of various lengths made from
interlocking cubes. Have students order the trains from shortest to
longest.
Height - Ask five or more children to line-up at the front of the
room. Have them order themselves from tallest to shortest or shortest
to tallest. Repeat this activity using different children. (1SS1.2)

Lesson 2: Ordering Lengths

1SS1
TG pp. 16 - 19

Unit Centre:
TG p. 9
Ordering Lengths

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 117

MEASUREMENT

Strand: Shape and Space (Measurement)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
Problem Solving

• Use an Object ‘Use an Object’ to help solve a problem. This is similar to ‘Make a
Model’. Students use simple objects such as string, paper clips, snap
cubes or any non-standard measuring tool to solve the problem.

1SS1 Continued

Achievement Indicators:
1SS1.1 Identify common Students should recognize that area tells about the amount of space
attributes, such as length, height, taken up by an object. You may wish to use tangrams, pentominoes or
mass, capacity and area that pattern blocks to cover the area of given objects.
could be used to compare two
given objects.

Students should order objects that cover the least amount of space to the
1SS1.2 Order a set of objects by
most amount of space.
length, height, mass, capacity or
area, and explain their ordering.

1SS1.3 Compare two given Provide two objects and ask students to compare the area.
objects, and identify the attributes
used to compare.

To compare areas, students examine the amount of space taken up

1SS1.7 Determine which of two
by an object. For example, one book might take up more of the desk
or more objects has the greatest
than another. Direct measurement involves placing one surface on top
or least area by covering, and
of another similar object to see which “sticks out”. While developing
explain the reasoning.
measurement skills for area, students should use terms such as greatest/
most area and least/smallest area.

118 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 MEASUREMENT

General Outcome: Use Direct or Indirect Measurement to Solve Problems

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Working in pairs, students are directed to compare the length of Lesson 3: Strategy Toolkit
their forearms from the wrist to the elbow. Give students paper
TG pp. 20 - 21
clips or string to measure the length of their forearms and compare
the object(s) used to see who has the longest arm and who has the
shortest arm.

• Provide students with hands-on activities to order area and explain

their reasoning.
Area - Provide students with three books. Ask students to order the Lesson 4: Comparing by
books from the greatest area to the least area or vice versa. Repeat Covering
using different objects. (Objects that are used should be similar in 1SS1
shape). (1SS1.2)
TG pp. 22 - 23

• Give students a trapezoid, or other shape. Ask them to draw another

shape with a larger area. As them to explain their thinking. (1SS1.7) Unit Centre:
TG p. 9
• Provide students with a set of tangrams and ask them to compare the Exploring Area with Pattern
areas of the triangles in the set. Ask students to order the triangles Blocks
from the greatest area to the least area. (1SS1.3)

• Provide students with two objects. Ask: Can you tell which of these
two objects takes up the most space? (1SS1.3, 1.2) Audio CD 2:
Selection 18
• Have students work in pairs to trace and cut out their shoe print.
Using colored tiles the students will cover their shoe print and count
the number of tiles used in order to compare the area of both prints.
(1SS1.1, 1.3)
• Provide each student with two equal amounts of plasticine. Students
will roll one piece “the hotdog way” (long and skinny) and the other
piece “the hamburger way” (short and fat). Cover each piece with
counters to determine which piece holds the most. (1SS1.3, 1.7)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 119

MEASUREMENT

Strand: Shape and Space (Measurement)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1SS1 Continued
Achievement Indicators:

1SS1.1 Identify common Using two objects of different sizes, ask student how they could
attributes, such as length, height, compare the objects. For example, two glasses could be compared by
mass, capacity and area that height as well as capacity. Working with a variety of objects will allow
could be used to compare two many opportunities for students to make comparisons relating to
given objects. measurement, using many attributes.

1SS1.2 Order a set of objects by Students should order objects from those that hold least to those that
length, height, mass, capacity or hold most. Include containers that have the same height but different
area, and explain their ordering. capacities.

Students should recognize that capacity tells how much something

1SS1.3 Compare two given
will hold. They should investigate strategies to directly compare the
objects, and identify the attributes
capacities of two or more containers.
used to compare.

Direct measurement involves filling one container and then pouring the
1SS1.6 Determine which of two
contents into another to find out which holds more. While developing
or more objects holds the most or
measurement skills for capacity, students should use terms such as holds
least by filling, and explain the
more, holds less, holds the same, full and empty.
reasoning.

120 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 MEASUREMENT

General Outcome: Use Direct or Indirect Measurement to Solve Problems

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide students with two objects. Ask: Lesson 5: Comparing by Filling
Can you tell which of these two objects holds more? (Students 1SS1
should recognize that capacity is an attribute that can not be used to
TG pp. 24 - 27
measure these objects). Repeat the activity with other sets containing
two objects. (1SS1.3)
Unit Centre:
• Provide students with hands-on activities to order capacity. TG p. 9
Provide students with three (or more) containers of various sizes. At the Water Table
Using rice or macaroni, ask students to order the containers from
holds more to holds less. Repeat using different containers.
(1SS1.2)

• Provide students with rice/macaroni and two containers of different

sizes, such as a coffee mug and a drinking glass. Ask: “Which
container holds more rice? How do you know?” Repeat using
different containers and materials with which to measure. (1SS1.6)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 121

MEASUREMENT

Strand: Shape and Space (Measurement)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1SS1 Continued
Achievement Indicators:
Students should recognize that mass tells about the “heaviness” of an
1SS1.1 Identify common
object. It is important to work with a variety of different objects to
attributes, such as length, height,
compare and explore mass.
mass, capacity and area that
could be used to compare two
given objects.

1SS1.2 Order a set of objects by Students should order objects from lightest to heaviest.
length, height, mass, capacity or
area, and explain their ordering.

1SS1.3 Compare two given When comparing the mass of two objects it is important that students
objects, and identify the attributes have experiences with objects that are smaller but have a greater mass.
used to compare.
Students should explore direct methods to compare and order masses.
1SS1.5 Determine which of
Direct measurement involves placing two objects on a balance
two or more objects is heaviest
simultaneously and comparing the mass of one with that of the other.
or lightest by comparing, and
explain the reasoning.
The most conceptual way for children to compare the mass of objects
is to hold the objects in their hands and compare. Have the students
collect items from around the classroom to compare masses. Students
take turns predicting and then lifting an item in each hand to feel
which is heavier and which is lighter. More than one student should
do the same comparison. Observe if there is agreement. Students may
then use a pan balance to confirm their predictions. While developing
measurement skills for mass, students should use terms such as heavier
and lighter.

122 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 MEASUREMENT

General Outcome: Use Direct or Indirect Measurement to Solve Problems

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide students with two objects such as an eraser and a book. Ask: Lesson 6: Comparing Mass
Can you tell which of these two objects is heavier? (1SS1.1) 1SS1, 1PR3
TG pp. 28 - 31
• Provide students with a set of three objects. Using a pan balance to
measure, ask children to order the objects from heaviest to lightest or
lightest to heaviest. Repeat using different objects. (The number of
objects used may vary depending on the students understanding of
mass). (1SS1.2)

• Provide students with two objects, such as two pieces of fruit, and a Investigation 2: At the Fire Hall
two-pan balance. Ask: “Which piece of fruit is the heaviest? How do
you know?” Repeat using other objects. (1SS1.5) Optional
Audio CD 3:
• Ask students to make two balls out of play dough, predict which Selections 1 & 2
ball is the heaviest by placing one in each hand, and confirm their
predictions using a pan balance. (1SS1.5)

• Have students predict which is heaviest - a large bag of cotton balls

or a small ball bearing. (1SS1.3, 1.5)

• Show the students three balls of similar size but different mass.
Ask them to predict which ball has the greatest mass. Verify the
predictions using a pan balance. (1SS1.2, 1.5)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 123

 Numbers to 100

Suggested Time: 4 Weeks

This is the first explicit focus, but as with other

outcomes, number sense is ongoing throughout the
year
NUMBERS TO 100

Unit Overview
Focus and Context Earlier work in Grade One explored the number concepts for numbers
to 20. Students will build new understanding of the numbers to 100
on the foundation of their prior knowledge of numbers to 20. They will
learn and practice approaches for counting, estimating and grouping
objects into sets for numbers to 100. It is important that students
experience activities using a variety of manipulatives, such as ten frames,
number lines, and snap cubes. This unit is an introduction to numbers
to 100, which will be further explored and developed in Grade Two.

Math Connects Number sense develops naturally as students connect numbers to their
own real life experiences and use numbers as benchmarks and referents.
Making connections is the heart of doing mathematics. With larger
numbers, students will make connections to their prior knowledge and
experiences working with smaller numbers. They will make connections
with other mathematical concepts and procedures. As well, students will
make connections with their daily life experiences and see connections
with mathematics across the curriculum. As students make these
connections, they will build a deeper, richer understanding of number
concepts.

126 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM

 NUMBERS TO 100

Process Standards
[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving
Key [CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Curriculum STRAND OUTCOME PROCESS

Outcomes STANDARDS
N1. Say the number
sequence 0 to 100 by:
• 1s forward between
any two given
numbers
Number • 1s backward from 20 [C, CN, ME, V]
to 0
• 2s forward from 0
to 20
• 5s and 10s forward
from 0 to 100
N3 Demonstrate an
understanding of
counting by:
• indicating that the
last number said
identifies “how
many” [C, CN, ME, R, V]
Number
• showing that any set
has only one count
• using the counting-
on strategy
• using parts or equal
groups to count sets

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTerim 127

NUMBERS TO 100

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N1. Say the number sequence 0
to 100 by:
• 1s forward between any
two given numbers
• 1s backward from 20 to 0
• 2s forward from 0 to 20
• 5s and 10s forward from 0
to 100.
[C, CN, ME, V]
Achievement Indicators:

1N1.1 Recite forward by 1s the Students have worked on counting forwards and backwards to 20 in a
number sequence between two previous unit. At this time, many of the same outcomes are addressed
given numbers (0 - 100). but now we will be extending the numbers to 100.

1N1.2 Recite backward by 1s the

number sequence between two
given numbers (20 - 0).

N3 Demonstrate an
understanding of counting by:
• indicating that the last
number said identifies “how
many”
• showing that any set has only
one count
• using the counting-on strategy
• using parts or equal groups to
count sets
[C, CN, ME, R, V]
Achievement Indicator:

1N3.2 Identify and correct errors Throughout daily counting activities, where objects are counted
in a given counting sequence. meaningfully, make errors in counting sequences for children to identify
and correct. Students will gain increased confidence in their counting
abilities as many opportunities are provided for meaningful counting.

128 Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INterim

 NUMBERS TO 100

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide each student with a number card from 0-20. Have students Launch
line up in order. Have students count the number sequence (lowest
Teacher Guide (TG) p. 15
to highest or highest to lowest). This activity can be modified
counting forward with larger numbers. (1N1.1, 1.2)
Lesson 1: Counting to 50
• Provide a set of objects for students to count. After students have 1N1
counted, count the set making an error in the counting sequence. TG pp. 16 - 17
Have students identify and correct the error. (N3.2)

Audio CD 3:
Selection 3

Lesson 2: Counting Sets to 50

1N1, 1N3, 1N6
TG pp. 18 - 21

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 129

NUMBERS TO 100

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N3 Continued

Achievement Indicators:

1N3.6 Count quantity, using Counting larger collections is more efficient using skip counting as a
groups of 2, 5 or 10 and counting strategy. With frequent opportunities to count collections, students will
on. be able to count larger quantities more efficiently using groups of 2, 5,
or 10. Provide students with a collection of objects such as counters,
snap cubes, or pennies. Have them count the objects by 2s, using their
fingers to touch and move the objects as they count (e.g., 2, 4, 6, 8). To
count by 5s and 10s, have students sort the collection into groups of 5
or 10, and then count the collection by touching the groups (e.g., 5, 10,
15, 20 or 10, 20, 30, 40). For collections that cannot be sorted evenly
into groups of 5 or 10, students should be able to sort the items into
groups of 2, 5, or 10 and then count on to find the total. For example,
if provided with a set of 34 counters, students should make three groups
of 10 and one group of 4, and count, “10, 20, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34.”

At this time students record numerals to 50. Later in this unit, they will
1N3.7 Record the number of
be given opportunities to record numerals to 100. Numeral symbols
objects in a given set (up to 100).
have meaning for students only when they are introduced as labels
for quantities. Students learn to write numbers as they gain a deeper
understanding of number. Opportunities should begin at first by
focusing on counting and recording numbers to 10. As students acquire
1N1 Continued a deeper understanding of number, students should count and record
numbers up to 100.
Achievement Indicators:
1N1.5 Skip count by 2s to 20, Provide counting opportunities for various number sequences including:
starting at 0. • multiples of 2, beginning at zero (e.g., 2, 4, 6, 8,... 20)
• multiples of 5, beginning at zero (e.g. 5, 10, 15… 50)
1N1.6 Skip count by 5s to 100,
At this point, students will skip count to 20 and to 50. Later,
starting at 0.
opportunities to skip count to 100 will be provided.

130 Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INterim

 NUMBERS TO 100

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide students with a bag of counters. Tell them they must find Lesson 2 (Continued): Counting
out how many there are in total without counting by ones. Have Sets to 50
students illustrate or demonstrate to the class how they counted and
1N1, 1N3, 1N6
decide which way of counting was the most efficient.
(1N3.6, 1N1.5, 1.6) TG: pp. 18 - 21

• Provide students with a hundred chart. Ask them to colour the

numbers they land on when they count by 5 and 10. (A number Unit Centres:
strip from 0 to 20 can be used when counting by 2s). (1N1.6) TG p. 13
Picture Perfect
• Use pennies to have students practice counting by 1s and 2s. Have
students drop the coins into a transparent piggy bank or container as
they count. For example, when counting by 2s, students can count
on every second penny dropped into the bank. Using a transparent
bank provides a visual and auditory means for students as they
count. (1N1.5, 1.6)

• Have students count the number of eyes at their table by 2s and the
number of fingers by 5s and the number of toes by 10s. (1N1.5, 1.6)

Student-Teacher Dialogue
• Ask students how many ways they can count to 20 and record their
findings.
• Ask: If you count by 2s, starting at zero, will you say the number 7?
Why or why not? (1N1.5, 1.6) Lesson 3: Skip Counting
1N1
Pencil and Paper TG pp. 22 - 25
• Many counting activities can be extended to meet this indicator by
having children record their answers. (1N3.7) Audio CD 3:
Selections 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 131

NUMBERS TO 100

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N1 Continued
Achievement Indicator:

1N1.8 Identify and correct errors/ Provide a number sequence, visually and/or orally, with one number
omissions in a given number missing or one number that does not belong. Have students listen for,
sequence and explain. identify, and/or record the missing or incorrect number and explain
their answer.

1N3 Continued
Achievement Indicator:
Counting larger collections is more efficient using skip counting as a
1N3.6 Count quantity, using
strategy. With frequent opportunities to count collections, students
groups of 2, 5 or 10 and counting
will be able to count larger quantities more efficiently using groups
on.
of 2, 5, or 10. Provide students with a collection of objects such as
counters, snap cubes, or pennies. Have them count the objects by 2s,
using their fingers to touch and move the objects as they count (e.g.,
2, 4, 6, 8). To count by 5s and 10s, have students sort the collection
into groups of 5 or 10, and then count the collection by touching
the groups (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20 or 10, 20, 30, 40). For collections that
cannot be sorted evenly into groups of 5 or 10, students should be able
to sort the items into groups of 2, 5, or 10 and then count on to find
the total. For example, if provided with a set of 34 counters, students
should make three groups of 10 and one group of 4, and count, “10,
20, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34.”

Problem Solving Students have already been introduced to the strategies of ‘Guess
and Check’ and ‘Use an Object’ and have had many opportunities
• Draw a Picture throughout the previous units to practice these strategies. In addition to
these strategies consider having students draw a picture of the problem
before attempting to solve it. This can be beneficial to visual learners.
Although students may think that drawing a picture to solve a problem
is easy, the thought that goes into creating the picture is important to
the success of the investigation and is helpful in presenting the solution.
Students draw a representation of the problem.

132 Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INterim

 NUMBERS TO 100

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Have students work with a partner to create a number sequence Lesson 4: The 100 - Chart
with a missing number. Exchange sequence with another pair and 1N1
identify the missing number. (1N1.8) TG: pp. 26 - 27

• Find My Mistake - Say any number sequence (0-100) incorrectly.

Unit Centres:
Have the students identify the error, correct it, and explain their
100 Chart Puzzle
answer. (1N1.8)
TG p. 13

• Grab a Handful - Provide students with a variety of objects in paper Lesson 5: Grouping Sets
bags (e.g., link-its, beans, macaroni, counters). Students grab a
handful of objects from one bag and sort into groups of 2, 5 or 10. 1N3
Have students record how many groups of 2 / 5 / 10. How many are TG: pp. 28 - 31
left over and how many in all.
Unit Centres:
Number Mix-Up
TG p. 13
Lesson 6: Groups of 10
1N3
TG: pp. 32 - 35

Audio CD 1:
Selection 17

(1N3.6) Unit Centres:

Roll it and Build it
TG p. 13

• Model this problem for the students:

There are 5 dogs in my neighbour’s back garden. When I look Lesson 7: Strategies Toolkit
over the fence how many dog legs do I see? Discuss how many
legs are on one dog and draw the five dogs. Count the number of TG pp. 36 - 37
legs.

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 133

 Addition and Subtraction to 20

Suggested Time: 7 Weeks

In this unit students will further develop their personal strategies for
addition and subtraction to 20. Continue practice throughout the
remainder of the year.
ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

Unit Overview
Focus and Context Earlier work in Grade One provided students with many opportunities
to develop personal strategies for solving addition and subtraction
problems to 12. In this unit, students will use their previous experiences
to refine their strategies, as well as develop new strategies for adding
and subtracting numbers to 20. The emphasis will continue to be a
problem solving approach using manipulatives, such as number lines,
ten frames and snap cubes. Students will be engaged in activities to
develop the relationship between addition and subtraction. As they
develop the understanding that addition and subtraction have an
inverse relationship, they will become more flexible in using strategies
to solve problems.

Math Connects Problem solving should be the central focus of the mathematics
curriculum as it is a primary goal of all mathematical activities. It is not
a distinct topic but a process that should permeate the entire program
and provide the context in which concepts and skills can be learned.
(Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics,
NCTM, p.23). Students learn to add and subtract in order to solve
problems that make sense to them. As well, they must be able to
interpret the problem to know what the problem is asking. They must
have the skills and understanding of number to solve the problem.
Students should be encouraged to discuss their representations and
strategies used to solve problems to help deepen their understanding of
number and operations.

136 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM

 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

Process Standards [C]

Communication [PS] Problem Solving
Key [CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

STRAND OUTCOME PROCESS

STANDARDS
1N9 Demonstrate an understanding of
addition of numbers with answers to 20
and their corresponding subtraction facts,
concretely, pictorially and symbolically,
Curriculum by:
Outcomes • using familiar and mathematical
language to describe additive and
subtractive actions from their personal
Number experience [C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]

• creating and solving problems in

context that involve addition and
subtraction
• modelling addition and subtraction,
using a variety of concrete and visual
representations, and recording the
process symbolically.
1N10 Describe and use mental
mathematics strategies (memorization not
intended), such as:
• counting on and counting back
Number • making 10 [C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]
• using doubles
• using addition to subtract
to determine the basic addition facts to
18 and related subtraction facts.
Patterns and 1PR4 Record equalities, using the equal
Relations symbol (0 to 20)
[C, CN, PS, V]
(Variables and
Equations)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTerim 137

ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N10 Describe and use Students will have worked with addition and subtraction to 12. They
mental mathematics strategies will build on their prior knowledge and strategies to work with numerals
(memorization not intended), to 20. Students need to be proficient when working with numbers to
such as: 10 before we can expect them to see relationships with larger numbers.
• counting on and counting When they begin working with numbers to 20 many students will
back solve problems by counting. The focus in this unit is to see that the
• making 10 relationships between numbers and the strategies they develop when
• using doubles
working with smaller numbers can be applied when working with larger
• using addition to subtract
numbers. New strategies will be introduced to help students build their
to determine the basic
repertoire of strategies for mathematical computations.
addition facts to 18 and related
subtraction facts. Make Ten - Give students flash cards with the addition facts where at
least one addend is 8 or 9. Students choose a card and build on the 8 or
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V] 9 to think “10 and so many more”.

E.g.,
Make the 8 a ten so you have 10 and 3 more is 13.

Achievement Indicators:
Students should be provided with situations where they have
1N10.1 Use and describe a
opportunities for solving problems in different ways. This will help
personal strategy for determining
them recognize the value of various strategies for themselves and use the
a given sum.
strategies that are most meaningful to them. Students may not use all
strategies and only employ a strategy once it makes sense to them.
1N10.2 Use and describe a
personal strategy for determining
a given difference.

138 Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INterim

 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Double your Die - Using a 4 to 9 number cube (or spinner), students
Launch
roll the die and double the number shown on the die. Students
record the number sentence and solve. (1N10.1) Teacher Guide (TG) p. 15

• Double your Die plus one / less one - This is an extension of Double Lesson 1: Addition and
your Die for students who are ready. Students roll and think “double Subtraction Facts to 18
plus one”. They record the resulting equation and solve the problem.
1N10
As an extension, students can also do “Double less One”.
(1N10.1, 10.2) TG pp. 16 - 17

Student-Teacher Dialogue
• Provide students with addition and subtraction sentences and ask
them to explain the strategy they used to find the given sum or
difference. Observe whether students:
• solve problems involving numbers to 10 in a different way than
numbers to 20
• can explain the strategy used
• is confident in their answer (1N10.1, 10.2)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 139

ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Variables and Equations)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1PR4 Record equalities, using the Students will have worked with recording equalities using the equal
equal symbol (0 to 20) symbol for numbers up to 12.

[C, CN, PS, V] Using the words “the same as” for the equal sign will help them to
further understand this relation.

Achievement Indicators:

1PR4.1 Represent a given When students begin the study of equality, it is important for them to
equality, using manipulatives or see that the equal sign represents a relation, not an operation. It tells
pictures. us that the quantity on the left is the same as the quantity on the right.
Students should see the symbol as a way of communicating what they
know about the relationship. Using the words “the same as” for the
1PR4.2 Represent a given equal sign will help them further understand this relation.
pictorial or concrete equality in
symbolic form.

1PR4.4 Record different

representations of the same
quantity (0 to 20) as equalities

140 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

General Outcome: Represent Algebraic Expressions in Multiple Ways

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Students sit in a circle. Each student is given a chain of the specified Lesson 2: Addition to 20
number (e.g., 17) of links of one color. On the signal, “break it” 1N9, 1N10, 1PR4
students will break their chain into two parts. Record it as an TG pp. 18 - 19
equality. Repeat until students discover as many representations for
the same number (17) as they can find. (1PR4.1, 4.2, 4.4)
Unit Centres:
Same Number, Different Ways
• What is in the bag? Using a balance scale and counters students work TG p. 13
in pairs. Partner one puts 15 counters on one side of the scale. And
on the other side, a brown paper bag with 9 counters inside. Partner
Unit Centres:
two must add counters to the side of the scale holding the bag (not
Domino-me!
in the bag) until both sides are balanced. Partner two then figures out
how many counters were in the bag and explains their strategy. Both TG p. 13
partners record the equality. Partners then switch roles and record a
different equality for the same number (15). (1PR4.4) Lesson 3: Subtraction to 20
1N9, 1N10, 1PR4
TG pp. 20 - 23

Audio CD 3:
Selection 13 & 14

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 141

ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N10 Continued Previously, in this unit, students have worked through addition and
subtraction sentences and problems. At this point, students may be
already starting to refine their strategies. As students begin to take more
Achievement Indicators:
risks with different strategies, encourage them to compare their known
1N10.3 Refine personal strategies strategies with the new ones, asking which they think is better and why.
to increase their efficiency. A discussion about using strategies that help students find the sums and
differences quickly may be needed. Provide plenty of opportunities for
students to share their thinking and their strategies with their classmates.
Once students have a good understanding of what a strategy is and
how to use it, the strategies listed in this outcome can be addressed
individually. They can be combined to expand students’ existing
repertoire of strategies. This will increase their efficiency with number
computation. It is important to remember that students’ computation
abilities will vary according to the strategies work best for them.

1N10.4 Write the related It is important that students recognize that every addition problem can
subtraction fact for a given also be viewed as a subtraction problem and vice versa. Fact families
addition fact. demonstrate that four number sentences, two addition sentences
and two subtraction sentences, are all related to the same situation or
problem.
1N10.5 Write the related
addition fact for a given Put 18 two sided counters in a cup. Spill them on the table. Separate the
subtraction fact. red and yellow counters. Write a given subtraction sentence: 18 - 6 = 12.
Ask students to join the groups together and write the related addition
sentence.
Create two “link it” chains, one with 14 red links and one with 6 blue
links. Have students join the two together and give them the addition
sentence: 14 + 6 = 20.
Ask students to separate the two colors and write the related subtraction
sentence.

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 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Tell me how - As students the following question, “If you did not Lesson 4: Strategies for Addition
know the answer to 8 + 7, what are some really good ways to find the and Subtraction
answer? Tell me how you found the answer.” 1N9, 1N10
This activity can be done as a whole class activity or a think-pair- TG pp. 24 - 27
share approach. (1N10.3)
Audio CD 2:
Selections 6, 7, 15 & 16

Audio CD 3:
Selections 6, 7, 8, 9, 13 & 14

Performance
• Ask students to write a related addition/subtraction fact for the Lesson 5: Relating Addition and
following facts: Subtraction Facts
• 12 + 6 = 18 1N10
• 14 + 3 = 17 TG pp. 28 - 30
• 16 - 9 = 7
• 12 – 8 = 4 (1N10.4, 10.5)

• When using story boards to create problems for addition and

subtraction, ask students to record the related addition/subtraction Unit Centres:
fact for each problem they create. (1N10.4, 10.5) Connect It!
TG p. 13
• What’s Hiding? - Working in pairs, students use a two part mat (or
part-part-whole mat), counters and number cards 8 to 20. Students
choose a number card and count out that many counters. Partner
one covers their eyes while partner two splits the counters into two
parts, placing them on the two part mat. Partner two covers one side
of the mat with a piece of paper. Partner one then has to find the
hidden number and record it as either an addition or subtraction
sentence depending on the strategy they used. (1N10.4, 10.5)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 143

ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N9 Demonstrate an In the demonstration of understanding of addition and subtraction
understanding of addition of students need to be able to explain how they got their answers. By
numbers with answers to 20 and observing students at work we can assess their understanding of how
their corresponding subtraction they solve addition and subtraction problems.
facts, concretely, pictorially and
symbolically, by: Addition and subtraction problems can be categorized based on the
kinds of relationships they represent. It is important that all of the
• using familiar and following categories of problems be presented and that these are derived
mathematical language from students’ experiences.
to describe additive and
These categories include
subtractive actions from
their personal experience • Join Problems: result unknown, change unknown, initial
• creating and solving unknown
problems in context that • Separate Problems: result unknown, change unknown, initial
involve addition and unknown
subtraction • Compare Problems: difference unknown, larger unknown, smaller
• modeling addition and unknown
subtraction, using a (Van de Walle and Lovin, 2006, pp. 67-69)
variety of concrete and
visual representations,
and recording the process
symbolically.
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]

Achievement Indicators:

1N9.4 Create a story problem for

addition that connects to personal
experience, and simulate the
action with counters.

1N9.5 Create a story problem

for subtraction that connects to
personal experience, and simulate
the action with counters.

1N9.7 Represent a given story

problem pictorially or symbolically
to show the additive or subtractive
action, and solve the problem

144 Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INterim

 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance
• Have students create their own story problems for addition and Math Makes Sense 1
subtraction and demonstrate the additive or subtractive action with Lesson 6: Creating and Solving
counters. Incorporate the use of manipulatives, such as dominoes Story Problems
and dice, to generate numbers for story problems. (1N9.4, 9.5)
1N9, 1PR4
TG pp. 31 - 32
• Provide story boards for students to use with manipulatives to create,
model, and solve story problems. Story boards can be created by
drawing a simple scene, such as a fence, an ocean, or a tree, on a half-
sheet of 8 ½ X 11 paper. As well, a piece of black construction paper
can be used to represent outer space or night time, sandpaper for a
beach, and blue paper for the sky. Many different problems can be
created using the same story boards. Students should share their story
problems with others and record the corresponding number sentence
for each of their problems. (1N9.4, 9.5, 9.7)

• Joining Problems
• Result Unknown - There are 7 children in line at the water
fountain. 6 more join the line. How many students are in the line
now?
• Change Unknown - There are 7 children lined up at the water
fountain. More children join the line. There are now 13 children
in the line. How many children joined the line?
• Initial Unknown - There are some children lined up at the water
fountain. 6 children join the line. There are now 13 children in
the line. How many children were there first?
• Separate Problems
• Result Unknown - There are 14 candles on Julie’s birthday cake.
Chris blows 5 of the candles out. How many candles are still
burning?
• Change Unknown - There are 14 candles on Julie’s birthday cake.
Chris blows some of the candles out. There are 8 candles still
burning. How many candles did Chris blow out?
• Initial Unknown - There are candles on Julie’s birthday cake.
Chris blows 5 of the candles out. Now there are 8 candles still
burning. How many candles were first burning on the cake?
• Compare Problems
• Difference Unknown - Bob has 18 stickers. Julie has 9 stickers.
How many more stickers does Bob have?
• Larger Unknown - Bob has 8 more stickers than Julie. Julie has 9
stickers. How many stickers does Bob have?
• Smaller Unknown - Julie has 10 fewer stickers than Bob. Bob has
15 stickers. How many stickers does Julie have? (1N9.7)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 145

ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

Strand: Number

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1N9 Continued Students need to be exposed to a variety of word problems from the
three categories of problems:
Achievement Indicators:
Join Problems
1N9.6 Create a word problem for Separate Problems
a given addition or subtraction Compare Problems
number sentence.

It is important that they observe problems being created so they can

model the language and the process. Word problems created by students
are more meaningful to them ad reflect their experiences and interests.

Problem Solving Students have been introduced to the problem solving strategies:

• Choose a Strategy Act it Out

Make a Model
Find a Pattern
Draw a Picture
Guess and Check
Use an Object

Review these strategies and help them determine the best strategy for
them to use to solve the given problem.

Present the problem:

Bobby and Luke own 18 toy cars. When they were cleaning up their
room they could only find 9. How many cars are missing?
Students can choose to ‘Act it Out’, ‘Make a Model’, ‘Draw a Picture’,
‘Guess and Check’, or “Use and Object’. The strategy they choose may
be determined by their style of learning or their developmental phase.
Encourage them to use the strategy that they are most confident using.

146 Grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INterim

 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION TO 20

General Outcome: Develop Number Sense

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Have students create their own story problems for addition and Lesson 7: Further Strategies for
subtraction and demonstrate the additive or subtractive action with Solving Story Problems
counters. Incorporate the use of manipulatives, such as dominoes
1N9, 1N10
and dice, to generate numbers for story problems. (1N9.6)
TG pp. 33 - 36

• Storytellers - In a container put simple number sentences

Unit Centres: Word Problems
TG p. 13
Students draw a card and then must develop two different stories for
the same sentence. Students can be asked to act out their story.
(1N9.6)

Lesson 8: Strategies Toolkit

TG pp. 37 - 38

Investigation 3: Classroom Plants

TG pp. 41 - 45
Use as time permits.

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM 147

 Geometry

Suggested Time: 4 Weeks

Although geometry concepts have been explored, this is the first explicit focus.
GEOMETRY

Unit Overview
Focus and Context This unit provides students with experiences sorting, comparing,
describing, constructing and representing 2-D shapes and 3-D objects.
In Kindergarten, students sorted, built and described 3-D objects. In
Grade One, students will continue working with 3-D objects and will
be formally introduced to 2-D shapes. The focus is on sorting and
comparing 2-D shapes and 3-D objects using one attribute, rather than
on naming the shapes and objects.

Math Connects Geometry enables us to describe, analyze, and understand our physical
world and therefore, requires a focus throughout the Math curriculum.
It also complements and supports the study of other aspects of
mathematics such as number and measurement. Geometry offers
powerful tools for representing and solving problems in all areas of
mathematics.

150 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTERIM

 GEOMETRY

Process Standards
[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving
Key [CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Curriculum STRAND OUTCOME PROCESS

Outcomes STANDARDS
1SS2 Sort 3-D objects
Space and Shape
and 2-D shapes, using
(3D Objects and [C, CN, R, V]
one attribute, and
2D Shapes)
explain the sorting rule.
Shape and Space 1SS3 Replicate
(3D Objects and composite 2-D shapes [CN, PS, V]
2D Shapes) and 3-D objects.
1SS4 Compare 2-
Space and Shape
D shapes to parts of
(3D Objects and [C, CN, V]
3-D objects in the
2D Shapes)
environment.

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - INTerim 151

GEOMETRY

Strand: Shape and Space (3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1SS2. Sort 3-D objects and 2-D The study of two dimensional shapes and three dimensional objects is
shapes, using one attribute, and essential as we strive to describe, analyze, and understanding the world
explain the sorting rule. we live in. Activities selected in geometry should provide students with
the opportunity to explore. They need to see and feel, to build and take
[C, CN, R, V]
apart, to sort and identify their rule(s), and to share their observations
with their classmates. It is through such activities that students will
become familiar with the names of 2-D shapes and 3-D objects and
begin to recognize their attributes. It is very important to encourage
students to use accurate language when describing shapes. As pattern
blocks are regularly used for geometric inquiry, it would seem reasonable
that students become familiar with the terms that describe them which
include circle. triangle, square and rectangle. Students should be
comfortable using such terms as cylinder, sphere, cone, and cube, and
may extend their exploration to rectangular prisms and square pyramids.

Achievement Indicators:

1SS2.1 Sort a set of familiar 3-D Attributes of 3-D objects that children might explore include:
• the number of edges
objects or 2-D shapes, using a
given sorting rule. • the number of vertices
• the number of faces
• Will it roll? Stack? Slide?
With this knowledge, the students should sort a set of objects or shapes
using a given sorting rule.

1SS2.2 Sort a set of familiar 3-D Before expecting students to generate their own sorting rule(s), it is im-
portant to guide explorations about sets of 3-D objects and 2-D shapes
objects using a single attribute,
by asking questions such as:
determined by the student, and
• How are these objects alike?
explain the sorting rule.
• How are these objects different?
• How many faces/vertices/edges does this object have?
• What would happen if I tried to stack this object on top of another
object just like it?
• Can you find another example of this type of geometric solid/shape
in our classroom?
When objects have been explored, ask: “How can we sort these objects?”
It is important to allow students to use their own ideas and
understanding of 3-D objects to generate their own sorting rules.

152 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 GEOMETRY

General Outcome: Describe the Characteristics of 3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes and
Analyze the Relationships Among Them

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Seat the students in a circle and distribute familiar 3-D objects such Launch
as a water bottle, soup can, small box, tennis ball, etc. Using two
Teacher Guide (TG) p. 13
hula hoops, placed side by side, ask students to sort their objects
based on a given rule. Students take turns placing their 3-D object
in the hula hoop that matches its sorting rule. Possible sorting rules Lesson 1: Sorting 3-D Objects
include:
1SS2
• Stack or does not stack?
• Roll or does not roll? TG pp. 14 - 15
• Slide or does not slide?
• Edges or no edges?
• Square faces or no square faces? (1SS2.1)

• Provide students with a set of familiar 3-D objects to sort based on

a single attribute. Have the students explain their sorting rule to the
class. (1SS2.2)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 153

GEOMETRY

Strand: Shape and Space (3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1SS3. Replicate composite 2-D Experimentation, including free play, with 2-D shapes and 3-D objects
shapes and 3-D objects. provide students with opportunities to explore the attributes of shapes,
and how they can be put together and taken apart to make other shapes.
[CN, PS, V] Pattern blocks, attribute blocks, and tangram pieces are useful tools with
which students can explore these relationships.
Achievement Indicators:

1SS3.2 Select 3-D objects from a Students should develop the ability to replicate composite 3-D objects.
set to reproduce a composite 3-D It is through such replication that students become familiar with the
object. attributes of 3-D objects.

1SS3.4 Predict and select the Students will use their knowledge of the properties of 3-D objects to
3-D objects used to produce a predict and select which shapes are necessary to produce a composite
composite 3-D object, and verify shape/object. To verify their predictions and selections they will then
deconstruct the original shape/object and compare the two sets.
by deconstructing the composite
object.

154 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 GEOMETRY

General Outcome: Describe the Characteristics of 3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes and
Analyze the Relationships Among Them

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Set up a barrier for pairs of students. One student will use geometric Lesson 2: Replicating Composite
solids to create a composite 3-D object. When completed, remove Objects
the barrier, and the partner replicates the object. (1SS3.2, 3.4) 1SS3
TG pp. 16 - 19
• Provide students with a variety of 3-D solids. Show a composite 3-D
object, such as a tower, and ask students to predict and select which Unit Centres:
solids they need to replicate the object. Students build the object Build This!
using the solids they selected. They may then decompose the given TG p. 11
object to verify their predictions. (1SS3.2, 3.4)

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 155

GEOMETRY

Strand: Shape and Space (3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1SS2. Sort 3-D objects and 2-D
shapes, using one attribute, and
explain the sorting rule.

[C, CN, R, V]
Achievement Indicators:

1SS2.1 Sort a set of familiar 3-D Attributes of 2-D shapes that children might explore include:
objects or 2-D shapes, using a • the number of sides (edges)
given sorting rule. • the number of corners (vertices)
With this knowledge, the students should sort a set of objects or shapes
using a given sorting rule.
Before expecting students to generate their own sorting rule(s), it is im-
1SS2.3 Sort a set of 2-D
portant to guide explorations about sets 2-D shapes by asking questions
shapes using a single attribute,
such as:
determined by the student, and • How are these objects alike?
explain the sorting rule. • How are these objects different?
• How many sides and corners does this object have?
• Can you find another example of this shape in our classroom?
When objects have been explored, ask: “How can we sort these objects?”

It is important to allow students to use their own ideas and understand-

ing of 2-D shapes to generate their own sorting rules.

Students need ample opportunity to recognize and discuss the sorting

1SS2.4 Determine the difference
rule for two pre-sorted sets of familiar 2-D shapes. During circle time
between two pre-sorted sets of
or whole group activities, sort 2-D shapes while students observe. Have
familiar 3-D objects or 2-D
them predict where each object would be placed, explaining the possible
shapes, and explain a possible sorting rules used.
sorting rule used to sort them.

Problem Solving Students have been introduced to the problem solving strategies:
• Act it Out
• Choose a Strategy to solve the
problem • Make a Model
• Find a Pattern
• Draw a Picture
• Guess and Check
• Use an Object
Review these strategies and help them to determine the best strategy for
them to use to solve the given problem.

156 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 GEOMETRY

General Outcome: Describe the Characteristics of 3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes and
Analyze the Relationships Among Them

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Seat the students in a circle and distribute familiar 2-D shapes. Using Lesson 3: Sorting 2-D Shapes
two hula hoops, placed side by side, ask students to sort their objects
1SS2
based on a given rule. Students take turns placing their 2-D shape
in the hula hoop that matches its sorting rule. Possible sorting rules TG pp. 20 - 23
include:
• number of sides
Unit Centres: Sort and Match
• number of corners
• curved lines / straight lines TG p. 11
• colour
• size
(1SS2.1)
Indictor SS2.1 is nor directly covered
• Provide students with a set of familiar 2-D shapes to sort based on in resource. You may wish to add
a single attribute. Have the students explain their sorting rule to the tasks from other resources.
class. (1SS2.3)

• Provide sets of shapes that have been pre-sorted into two groups. Ask
students to determine the sorting rule and explain how they know.
(1SS2.4)
• Give students a target shape and have them find others in the
environment that is alike in some way. Discuss strategies that could
be used to help solve this problem.

Lesson 4: Strategies Toolkit

TG pp. 24 - 25

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 157

GEOMETRY

Strand: Shape and Space (3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes)

Outcomes Elaborations—Strategies for Learning and Teaching

Students will be expected to
1SS3. Replicate composite 2-D
shapes and 3-D objects.

[CN, PS, V]
Achievement Indicators:
Students should develop the ability to replicate composite 2-D shapes.
1SS3.1 Select 2-D shapes from a
It is through such replication that students become familiar with the
set to reproduce a composite 2-D
attributes of various 2-D shapes as well as 3-D objects.
shape.

Students will use their knowledge of the properties of 2-D shapes to

1SS3.3 Predict and select the
predict and select which shapes are necessary to produce a composite
2-D shapes used to produce a
shape. To verify their predictions and selections they will then
composite 2-D shape, and verify
deconstruct the original shape and compare the two sets.
by deconstructing the composite
shape.

1SS4. Compare 2-D shapes Students should recognize 2-D shapes and 3-D objects in their
to parts of 3-D objects in the environment. These real-world associations are most important in the
environment. development of geometric concepts. Students should become familiar
with the 2-D shapes that are the faces of 3-D objects. They should learn
[C, CN, V] to describe 3-D objects in relation to the shape of its faces.

1SS4.1 Identify 3-D objects Prior to identifying 3-D objects in the environment, students
(cylinder, cone, cube, sphere) in need many opportunities to explore the properties of 3-D objects.
the environment that have parts Explorations may include tracing the faces of the solids, or pressing the
similar to a 2-D shape (circle, faces in plasticine to identify the 2-D shapes.
triangle, square, rectangle).
Take students for a “Shape Hunt” around the school or the playground
looking for 2-D shapes in 3-D objects. For example, the door to the
classroom has a rectangular shape, the trash can has a circular face, etc.
Some students may need to move or touch the objects to determine the
2-D shapes. As students become more familiar with finding 2-D shapes
in 3-D objects, they may use magazines, flyers, or catalogues to identify
3-D objects that have parts similar to a 2-D shape.

158 grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim

 GEOMETRY

General Outcome: Describe the Characteristics of 3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes and
Analyze the Relationships Among Them

Suggested Assessment Strategies Resources/Notes

Performance Math Makes Sense 1

• Provide students with a tangram puzzle (with only an outside Lesson 5: Replicating Composite
outline) and ask them to predict and select the tangram pieces Shapes
required to replicate the shape. Students may then replicate the shape
1SS3
to verify their predictions. Pattern blocks may also be used for this
activity. TG pp. 26 - 30
(1SS3.3)

Unit Centres: Shape Patterns and

• Use pattern blocks to make an animal such as a pet cat. Show this Pictures
design to the students and ask them to use the set of pattern blocks
provided to replicate the design. (1SS3.1) TG p. 11

• Provide students with a set of paper 2-D shapes and have them
circulate in the classroom or another environment, finding parts
of 3-D objects. Students may record their findings in their Math
journal. E.g.,

Lesson 6: Comparing 3-D

Objects and 2-D Shapes
(1SS4.1)
1SS4

• Before going to lunch, ask students to open their lunch boxes to find TG pp. 31 - 34
2-D shapes in 3-D objects. For example, a sandwich container has a
square face, a yogurt container has a circular face, and a juice box has
Unit Centres: Sand Prints
a rectangular face. Ask students to choose one object and name the
2-D shape(s). (1SS4.1) TG p. 11

grade 1 mathematics Curriculum Guide - interim 159

 Appendix A
Outcomes by Strand
(with page references)

161 grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

appendix a

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Strand: Number General Outcome: Develop number sense

Specific Outcomes Achievement Indicators
It is expected that students will: The following set of indicators help determine whether students
have met the corresponding specific outcome.

1N1 Say the number sequence 0 to 100 by: 1N1.1 Recite forward by 1s the number sequence between two given
• 1s forward between any two given numbers numbers (0 to 100).
• 1s backward between any two given 1N1.2 Recite backward by 1s the number sequence between two given
numbers numbers (20 to 0).
• 1s backward from 20 to 0 1N1.3 Record a given numeral (0 to 100) symbolically when it is presented
• 2s forward from 0 to 20 orally.
• 5s and 10s forward from 0 to 100.
1N1.4 Read a given numeral (0 to 100) when it is presented symbolically.
[C, CN, ME, V]
1N1.5 Skip count by 2s to 20, starting at 0.
pp. 32, 128 1N1.6 Skip count by 5s to 100, starting at 0.
1N1.7 Skip count forward by 10s to 100, starting at 0.
1N1.8 Identify and correct errors/omissions in a given number sequence and
explain.
1N2 Subitize (recognize at a glance) and name 1N2.1 Look briefly at a given familiar arrangement of objects, dots or
familiar arrangements of 1 to 10 objects, dots or pictures and identify the number represented without counting.
pictures. 1N2.2 Identify the number represented by a given arrangement of dots on a
[C, CN, ME, V] ten frame and describe the number’s relationship to 5 and/or 10.

p. 46
1N3 Demonstrate an understanding of 1N3.1 Answer the question, “How many are in the set?”, using the last
counting by: number counted in a given set.
1N3.2 Identify and correct counting errors in a given counting sequence.
• indicating that the last number said
1N3.3 Show that the count of the number of objects in a given set does not
identifies “how many” change regardless of the order in which the objects are counted.
• showing that any set has only one 1N3.4 Count the number of objects in a given set, rearrange the objects,
count predict the new count and recount to verify the prediction.
1N3.5 Determine the total number of objects in a given set, starting from a
• using the counting-on strategy known quantity and counting on.
• using parts or equal groups to count 1N3.6 Count quantity, using groups of 2, 5 or 10 and counting on.
sets. 1N3.7 Record the number of objects in a given set (up to 100).
[C, CN, ME, R, V]
pp. 36, 40, 50, 88, 128
1N4 Represent and describe numbers to 20, 1N4.1 Represent a given number up to 20, using a variety of manipulatives,
concretely, pictorially and symbolically. including ten frames and base ten materials.
1N4.2 Read given number words to 20.
[C, CN, V]
1N4.3 Partition any given quantity up to 20 into 2 parts, and identify the
pp. 38, 40, 52, 58 number of objects in each part.
1N4.4 Model a given number, using two different objects; e.g., 10 desks
represents the same number as 10 pencils.
1N4.5 Place given numerals on a number line with benchmarks 0, 5, 10 and
20.
162 grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim
 appendix a

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Strand: Number (Continued) General Outcome: Develop number sense

Specific Outcomes Achievement Indicators
It is expected that students will: The following set of indicators help determine whether students
have met the corresponding specific outcome.

1N5 Compare and order sets containing up 1N5.1 Build a set equal to a given set that contains up to 20 elements.
to 20 elements to solve problems, using: 1N5.2 Build a set that has more elements than, fewer elements than or as
• referents (known quantities) many elements as a given set.
• one-to-one correspondence 1N5.3 Compare two given sets, using one-to-one correspondence, and
to solve problems. describe them, using comparative words such as more, fewer or as
many.
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]
1N5.4 Solve a given story problem (pictures and words) that involves the
p. 64
comparison of two quantities.
1N6 Estimate quantities to 20 by using 1N6.1 Estimate a given quantity by comparing it to a given referent (known
referents. quantity).
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V] 1N6.2 Select an estimate for a given quantity from at least two possible
p. 62 options, and explain the choice.

1N7 No Outcome
1N8 Identify the number, up to 20, that is 1N8.1 Name the number that is one more, two more, one less or two less
one more, two more, one less and two less than a given number, up to 20.
than a given number. 1N8.2 Represent a number on a ten frame that is one more, two more, one
[C, CN, ME, R, V] less or two less than a given number.

pp.44, 60
1N9 Demonstrate an understanding of 1N9.1 Act out a given problem presented orally or through shared reading.
addition of numbers with answers to 20 1N9.2 Indicate if the scenario in a given story problem represents additive or
and their corresponding subtraction facts, subtractive action.
concretely, pictorially and symbolically, by: 1N9.3 Represent the numbers and actions presented in a given story problem
by using manipulatives, and record them using sketches and/or
• using familiar and mathematical number sentences.
language to describe additive and 1N9.4 Create a story problem for addition that connects to personal
subtractive actions from their personal experience, and simulate the action with counters.
experience 1N9.5 Create a story problem for subtraction that connects to personal
experience, and simulate the action with counters.
• creating and solving problems in
1N9.6 Create a word problem for a given addition or subtraction number
context that involve addition and
sentence.
subtraction
1N9.7 Represent a given story problem pictorially or symbolically to show
• modelling addition and subtraction, the additive or subtractive action, and solve the problem.
using a variety of concrete and visual
representations, and recording the
process symbolically.
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]
pp. 90, 102, 110, 144

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appendix a

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Strand: Number (Continued) General Outcome: Develop number sense

Specific Outcomes Achievement Indicators
It is expected that students will: The following set of indicators help determine whether students
have met the corresponding specific outcome.

1N10 Describe and use mental mathematics (It is not intended that students recall the basic facts but become familiar
strategies (memorization not intended), with strategies to mentally determine sums and differences.)
such as: 1N10.1 Use and describe a personal strategy for determining a given sum.
1N10.2 Use and describe a personal strategy for determining a given
• counting on and counting back difference.
• making 10 1N10.3 Refine personal strategies to increase their efficiency.
1N10.4 Write the related subtraction fact for a given addition fact.
• using doubles
1N10.5 Write the related addition fact for a given subtraction fact.
• using addition to subtract
to determine the basic addition facts to 18
and related subtraction facts.
[C, CN, ME, PS, R, V]
pp. 98, 108, 138, 142

164 grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

 appendix a

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

General Outcome: Use patterns to describe the world and to

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Patterns)
solve problems.
Specific Outcomes Achievement Indicators
It is expected that students will: The following set of indicators help determine whether students
have met the corresponding specific outcome.

1PR1 Demonstrate an understanding of 1PR1.1 Describe a given repeating pattern containing two to four elements
repeating patterns (two to four elements) by: in its core.
1PR1.2 Identify and describe errors in a given repeating pattern.
• describing
1PR1.3 Identify and describe the missing element(s) in a given repeating
• reproducing pattern.
1PR1.4 Create and describe a repeating pattern, using a variety of
• extending
manipulatives, diagrams, sounds and actions.
• creating 1PR1.5 Reproduce and extend a given repeating pattern using
manipulatives, diagrams, sounds and actions.
patterns using manipulatives, diagrams,
1PR1.6 Describe, using every day language, a repeating pattern in the
sounds and actions.
environment, e.g., in the classroom, outdoors.
[C, PS, R, V] 1PR1.7 Identify repeating events; e.g., days of the week, birthdays, seasons.
p. 76
1PR2 Translate repeating patterns from one 1PR2.1 Represent a given repeating pattern, using another mode; e.g.,
representation to another. actions to sound, colour to shape, ABC ABC to moose puffin bear
moose puffin bear.
[C, CN, R, V] 1PR2.2 Describe a given repeating pattern, using a letter code; e.g., ABC
p. 82 ABC, …

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appendix a

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Strand: Patterns and Relations General Outcome: Represent Algebraic Expressions in Multiple
(Variables and Equations) Ways.
Specific Outcomes Achievement Indicators
It is expected that students will: The following set of indicators help determine whether students
have met the corresponding specific outcome.

1PR3 Describe equality as a balance and 1PR3.1 Construct two equal sets, using the same objects (same shape and
inequality as an imbalance, concretely and mass), and demonstrate their equality of number, using a balance
pictorially (0 to 20). scale.
1PR3.2 Construct two unequal sets, using the same objects (same shape and
[C, CN, R, V] mass), and demonstrate their inequality of number, using a balance
p. 68 scale.
1PR3.3 Determine if two given concrete sets are equal or unequal, and
explain the process used.

1PR4 Record equalities, using the equal 1PR4.1 Represent a given equality, using manipulatives or pictures.
symbol (0 to 20) 1PR4.2 Represent a given pictorial or concrete equality in symbolic form.
1PR4.3 Provide examples of equalities where the given sum or difference is
[C, CN, PS, V]
on either the left or right side of the equal symbol (=).
pp. 70, 94, 106, 140 1PR4.4 Record different representations of the same quantity (0 to 20) as
equalities.

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 appendix a

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Strand: Shape and Space General Outcome: Use direct or indirect measurement to
(Measurement) solve problems.
Specific Outcomes Achievement Indicators
It is expected that students will: The following set of indicators help determine whether students
have met the corresponding specific outcome.

1SS1 Demonstrate an understanding of 1SS1.1 Identify common attributes, such as length, height, mass, capacity
measurement as a process of comparing by: and area, that could be used to compare two given objects.
1SS1.2 Order a set of objects by length, height, mass, capacity or area, and
• identifying attributes that can be explain their ordering.
compared 1SS1.3 Compare two given objects, and identify the attributes used to
• ordering objects compare.
1SS1.4 Determine which of two or more objects is longest or shortest by
• making statements of comparison matching, and explain the reasoning.
• filling, covering or matching. 1SS1.5 Determine which of two or more objects is heaviest or lightest by
comparing, and explain the reasoning.
[C, CN, PS, R, V]
1SS1.6 Determine which of two or more objects holds the most or least by
pp. 116, 120 filling, and explain the reasoning.
SS1.7 Determine which of two or more objects has the greatest or least area
by covering, and explain the reasoning.

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appendix a

[C] Communication [PS] Problem Solving

[CN] Connections [R] Reasoning
[ME] Mental Mathematics [T] Technology
and Estimation [V] Visualization

Strand: Shape and Space General Outcome: Use direct or indirect measurement to solve
(Measurement) problems.
Specific Outcomes Achievement Indicators
It is expected that students will: The following set of indicators help determine whether students
have met the corresponding specific outcome.

1SS2 Sort 3-D objects and 2-D shapes, 1SS2.1 Sort a set of familiar 3-D objects or 2-D shapes, using a given sorting
using one attribute, and explain the sorting rule.
rule. 1SS2.2 Sort a set of familiar 3-D objects using a single attribute, determined
by the student, and explain the sorting rule.
[C, CN, R, V] 1SS2.3 Sort a set of 2-D shapes using a single attribute, determined by the
pp. 152, 156 student, and explain the sorting rule.
1SS2.4 Determine the difference between two pre-sorted sets of familiar 3-D
objects or 2-D shapes, and explain a possible sorting rule used to sort
them.
1SS3 Replicate composite 2-D shapes and 1SS3.1 Select 2-D shapes from a set to reproduce a composite 2-D shape.
3-D objects. 1SS3.2 Select 3-D objects from a set to reproduce a composite 3-D object.
1SS3.3 Predict and select the 2-D shapes used to produce a composite 2-D
[CN, PS, V]
shape, and verify by deconstructing the composite shape.
pp. 154, 158 1SS3.4 Predict and select the 3-D objects used to produce a composite 3-D
object, and verify by deconstructing the composite object.
1SS4 Compare 2-D shapes to parts of 3-D SS4.1 Identify 3-D objects (cylinder, cone, cube, sphere) in the environment
objects in the environment. that have parts similar to a 2-D shape (circle, triangle, square,
rectangle).
[C, CN, V]
p. 158

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 Appendix B
References

169 grade 1 mathematics curriculum guide - interim

appendix b

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Black, Paul and Dylan Wiliam. “Inside the Black Box: Raising Standards Through Classroom Assessment.”
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British Columbia. Ministry of Education. The Primary Program: A Framework for Teaching, 2000.

Burns, M. (2000). About teaching mathematics: A K-8 resource. Sausalito, CA: Math Solutions Publications

Caine, Renate Numella and Geoffrey Caine. Making Connections: Teaching and the Human Brain. Menlo
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Hope, Jack A. et.al. Mental Math in the Primary Grades (p. v). Dale Seymour Publications, 1988.

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Small, M. (2008). Making math meaningful to canadian students, K-8. Toronto, Ontario: Nelson Education
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