Decomposing Numbers Activity Set 1

Inspired by the Singapore method, these two fun sets develop skills in forming and breaking down numbers in order to find the whole or a part in a whole-part problem. The activities offered are based on multidirectional cubes, verbalising procedures, memorisation, and developing early calculation strategies (overcounting, etc.).
By following the instructions on the activity sheets, children explore the composition and breaking down of numbers. They count, compare and develop calculation strategies. They are encouraged to invent free constructions with the cubes while respecting a quantity/colour reference.

• Operate and verbalise number compositions and break downs.
• Build a collection of a given cardinal number.
• Composing and breaking down numbers.
• Counting up from a given number.

The children must build the requested quantities using the cubes, following the instructions on their card. They are gradually encouraged to make free constructions that leave room for their imagination.

Activity progression:
The 24 activity cards are organised into 4 sets with an incremental difficulty level according to the quantity involved. All decompositions from 3 to 6 are seen at least once on the cards.

Number composing activity example:
1. The child must build the instructed quantities with the cubes, according to the quantity/colour guide.
2. The child must assemble the two parts to build the unit, count the total number of cubes and place the corresponding number flag.

Number decomposing activity example:
1. The child must build the instructed quantities with the cubes, according to the quantity/colour guide.
2. Then the child must assemble the two sets edge to edge and complete the missing part.

The child can validate their answer by simply superimposing it on the reference board.