3 and 4 year olds: Mathematics
- I can quickly recognise groups of up to 3 objects, without having to count them individually (this is called ‘subitising’)
- I can say numbers in order past five
- I can say one number for each item in order: 1,2,3,4,5
- I know that the last number I reach when counting a small set of objects tells me how many there are in total (this is called the ‘cardinal principle’)
- I can show ‘finger numbers’ up to 5
- I can match the correct numeral (number symbol) to the right amount, up to 5, e.g. point to the number 3 when I count 3 snails
- I like to experiment with making my own marks and symbols as well as numerals
- I can use mathematical words to compare amounts ‘more than’, ‘fewer than’
- I like to explore 2D (flat) and 3D (solid) shapes. I can talk about shapes using everyday words like ‘pointy’. I can use mathematical words like: ‘sides’, ‘corners’, ‘straight’, ‘flat’, ‘round’
- I can understand position through words alone, e.g. “The bag is under the table.” – with no pointing
- I can describe a familiar route
- I can talk about routes and locations, using words like ‘in front of’ and ‘behind'
- I can make comparisons between objects relating to size, length, weight and capacity
- I can choose the right shape when building, e.g. triangular prism for a roof
- I can combine shapes to make new ones - an arch, a bigger triangle etc
- I can talk about and identify patterns that I see around me, e.g. stripes on clothes, designs on wallpaper. I use everyday language like ‘pointy’, ‘spotty’, ‘blobs’ etc
- I can make and extend ABAB patterns – stick, leaf, stick, leaf
- I can spot an error in a repeating pattern and correct it
- I am learning to use words such as ‘first’, ‘then’ ‘after’ to describe a pattern of events