Two Less Than

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Aims and objectives
The pupil will understand the term "two less than". They will be able to take two away from a given number between 1 and 20.

Previous knowledge
Pupils can count up to twenty and back again in ones. They can take two away from a given number and they are aware of all the associated vocabulary.

In the classroom
The pupil will see a set of randomly placed number cards from to 1 to 20. One number is highlighted. The pupil has to click on the number that is 2 less. Pupils clicking on the correct number move forward to the next task. Pupils clicking on an incorrect answer are asked to try again. If pupils are having difficulty, a message will tell them to ask the teacher for help. When the pupil finishes the activity, a score appears. The higher the score, the more praise they receive.

Pupils can access an on-line number track by clicking on the question mark in the bottom left of the screen. 

This activity, if used with an interactive whiteboard, allows the teacher to select children to pick their answers and talk about their decision to the rest of the class. Other children in the class can provide help and support to their peers.

Support materials description: Resource type:
The first worksheet offers teachers the opportunity to develop pupils' mental agility. As part of a whole-class activity, pupils can cut out the number cards. When the teacher asks, "What is two less than 20?", pupils respond by holding the correct card in the air. More able pupils can make up questions for the rest of the class. Cards.pdf
The second worksheet asks pupils to complete number sequences. Each sequence counts back in twos and the sequences increase in difficulty. Sequence1.pdf
The final worksheet asks the child to complete number sentences by taking away 2. In this way, the original activity is reinforced and extended. Sequence2.pdf

Curriculum references
Key Stage 1 - Numeracy Strategy:

  • Count reliably at least 20 objects
  • Read, write and order numbers from 0 to at least 20; understand and use the vocabulary of comparing and ordering these numbers
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