---
title: "Showing Your Working"
description: "Show and tell how a mathematical answer was found using objects, drawings, and spoken words"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/showing-your-working-mt_nyK25mNOeR
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/showing-your-working-mt_nyK25mNOeR.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# Showing Your Working

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

Subject: Mathematics · Area: Mathematical Thinking · Ages 5 to 6
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/showing-your-working-mt_nyK25mNOeR

## Ready when they can

- 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

## Lesson: Show What You Did

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

*(drawing: Mia put out 3 stars, then 2 more stars. She counted all of them to check her answer: 5.)*

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

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

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

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

## Practice

17 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [Numbers up to 10 into pairs](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/numbers-up-to-10-into-pairs-mt_7XcCG43ZZW)
- [Number bonds to 10](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/number-bonds-to-10-mt_e8CZ7E5qW7)
- [Listening and responding](https://lightmysky.com/learn/english/listening-and-responding-mt_mB7DVai-Uf)

## Opens up

- [Explaining Mathematical Reasoning](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/explaining-mathematical-reasoning-mt_kJ5wYzO8qC)