Teaching article
Before and after: locate the reference number first
Connect adjacent positions with the counting sequence using a clearly labelled line.
Asking for the next number is easier when everyone knows which number is the reference. Use a visible line to explore the immediate neighbours, including the distinction between looking backwards and continuing a forward chant.
To hand: Number line from zero to twenty.
Locate a chosen number. Move one position each way. Explain the neighbouring numbers.
Point to the neighbour on each side
On a whole-number line, the positions beside 12 are 11 and 13.
Use a stable number sequence and identify the reference number. Ask for the adjacent value rather than simply continuing a memorised chant.
Which direction increases the number? Use a large line and a movable marker.
A drawn gap's width should not change the numerical step.
Resources
- Maths Puzzle Generator — Choose arithmetic or missing-number questions only when they match the number relationship being explored.
Further reading
Read next
- Zero belongs in the collection story
- Number-line addition: what does each jump mean?
- One part-whole model connects addition and subtraction
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