Fun with Numbers

Rachel Strandquist

PROCEDURE:

1. Start the lesson off by singing the song “7 steps”. Write the numbers 1-7 on the board, and make sure that all of the students know them. Then, if the students don’t already know the song, play it once or twice on the CD player so that they know the tune. Once everyone can sing the song, sing it once or twice without the CD player. Next, erase one number from the board. When that number comes up in the song, the students have to clap once instead of singing the number (For example 1 2 3 X 5 6 7). Practice once or twice until they understand. Sing the song several times, erasing a different number each time. If the students catch on quickly (which all of mine did), start taking away two or three (or more) numbers at a time.

2. Next, introduce some new numbers, depending on the level of your students. 1st and 2nd grade can usually handle 1-20, see how high you can go with the 3rd and 4th grades.

3. Bingo Game. Hand out blank bingo sheets. Have the students write the numbers in the blanks. The number of blanks (ex. 16, 25) depends on the level of your students, the numbers you are concentrating on, and the amount of time you plan to allot for the game. For example, you could use 1-16 or 5-20 for lower grades, 1-25 or 11-35 for higher grades. This really depends on your class. Once the bingo sheets are filled in, start playing the game. Pull the numbers out of a box or envelope you’ve prepared before class. Play the game until time runs out or until everyone gets bingo.