One, Two, Three Fingers – Elementary Math

Purpose

To show combinations up to 6.

Overview

Show children 1, 2, or 3 fingers using one hand and have them match your demonstration. Then show each number again using one hand and challenge children to show you a matching quantity, if possible, using two hands.

About the sequence

Part 1 has children match your demonstration of 1, 2, or 3 fingers. Part 2 has children show the matching quantity using two hands. The extension introduces repeating Parts 1 and 2 but with 4, 5, or 6 fingers.

Part 1

I’m going to show you some fingers and you try to match exactly what you see.

Show 1 finger.
Show 2 fingers.
Show 3 fingers.
Repeat in varying order.

While children are enjoying their building of mastery, feel free to repeat. When children are eager for more, try Part 2.

Part 2

Now I’m going to show you some fingers and you try to match what you see using two hands.

Show 1 finger. (Have children show using two hands).
Show 2 fingers. (Have children show using two hands).
Show 3 fingers. (Have children show using two hands).
Repeat in varying order.

As always, when children seem excited for a new challenge, move on.

Extension

I’m going to show you some fingers and you try to match what you see using one hand or two hands.

Show 4 fingers. (Have children show using one or two hands).
Show 5 fingers. (Have children show using one or two hands).
Show 6 fingers. (Have children show using two hands).
Repeat in varying order.