Getting Started.
Some children will naturally begin to collect together items when in an outdoor environment. Filling up a matchbox/shoe box/tub with interesting things may encourage them to look carefully at objects around them. Photos of objects can be taken and kept for later activities inside.
Possible contexts.
Mathematics outdoors, whether the everyday EYFS setting or a new setting on a visit or walk.
1. Counting and comparing.
(T0 a child who is counting the objects of his/her own accord) How many "things" have you found?
Who has collected the most?
How could we find out?
2.Describing objects
Tell me about your ..(objects)
Tell me about the order you've chosen to put them in.
What is the longest/shortest heaviest/lightest thing you have found. How do you know?
Some of the possible routes they might take
1. Counting and comparing
2. Describing shapes and other characteristics
3. Sorting and matching
4. Problem solving
3.Sorting and Matching.
What is the same about all your things?
Which is the odd one out of these three? Why?
How could you sort the things you've found?
Can you sort them in a different way?
4a.Solving problems.
What would happen if you put your things with Jo's?
How could you sort them ow?
In addition to these Mathematical observations you will have opportunities to observe other aspects of the EYFS Themes and Commitments. You may like to print off this sheet as an aide, on which you can not down what individual children say and do as they engage with the activity.
Please do send us photo, further suggestions and comments. Print this off here .
4b.Solving problems.
(Some children might enjoy adding yo their coection over a longer period of time)
How could you sort them now?