LightMySky

Showing Your Working

Show and tell how a mathematical answer was found using objects, drawings, and spoken words

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What a learner can do afterwards

  • Use objects or drawings to demonstrate how an addition or subtraction was solved
  • Respond to 'how do you know?' by pointing to objects or a drawing and describing what was done
  • Listen to a peer's explanation and say whether they agree or disagree

The lesson

When you solve a maths problem, you can show how you found your answer. Use objects, a drawing, or your own words.

Tap each star and count out loud.
Mia put out 3 stars, then 2 more stars. She counted all of them to check her answer: 5.
Try it together

Jack has 6 blocks. He takes 2 away. He crosses out 2 blocks and counts what is left: 4 blocks.

Good to know

If someone asks 'how do you know?', point to your drawing. Explain what you did, one step at a time.

Good to know

When a friend explains their answer, listen first. Then tell them if you agree or disagree.

Show your answer with objects, drawings, or words, then explain why.

Watch it

Where it sits

Where this leads

Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.

Then practise

8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.

Showing Your Working · Mathematics, ages 5 to 6 · LightMySky