Creative Position Play: Move & Describe!
Prep Year Mathematics Learning positional language through play 40-minute lesson for 6 students
WALT (We Are Learning To)
Use positional language to describe where objects and animals are Understand words like 'under', 'on', 'next to', 'in front of', and 'behind' Create sentences using position words Listen carefully and follow movement instructions
Australian Curriculum Links
Foundation Year Mathematics Measurement and Geometry - AC9MFN03 Spatial awareness and positioning skills Following directions and pathways - AC9M2SP02
Success Criteria - I Can...
Use position words to tell where animals are placed Help write simple sentences about animal positions Freeze and pose while describing where I am Listen carefully and follow movement instructions
Resources We'll Use Today
Small animal toys (one for each student) Digital camera or tablet for photos Whiteboard for writing captions Music player with fun children's songs Clear floor space for dancing and movement
Introduction Activity
Watch teacher demonstrate with toy animals Practice saying position words together See examples: 'The dinosaur is under the bookcase' 'The koala is next to the chair'
Main Activity Part 1: Animal Scene Creation
Each student chooses their favorite animal toy Work together to create different scenes Teacher takes photos of each scene Write captions using position words Example: 'The elephant is behind the table'
Main Activity Part 2: Freeze Frame Game
Dance freely while music plays FREEZE when music stops! Move once more to a new position Describe where you are using position words Example: 'I am next to the door'
Differentiation Strategies
Visual cues and gestures for all position words Sentence starter cards for writing support Pair work for peer assistance Physical pointing and concrete examples Pre-teach vocabulary with real objects
Extension Activities for Advanced Learners
Create positional scenes at home with drawings or photos Make up position riddles for classmates Example: 'My animal is under the chair AND next to the wall' Use two or more position words in one sentence
Reflection and Celebration
'Today we learned to describe where things are using special position words!' Share our favorite animal positions Look at our amazing photo story book Use position words in everyday conversations