Whole Numbers Start

Unit: Mastering Whole Numbers

Lesson 1 of 30: Introduction to Whole Numbers

Grade: 6
Duration: 60 minutes
Class size: 30 students
Curriculum Reference: Alberta Mathematics Program of Studies, Grade 6
(Strand: Number – Number Concepts and Operands)
Focus: Develop an understanding of whole numbers, their properties, and significance.

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Alberta Curriculum Learning Outcomes Addressed

• Number Strand (6.N.1 and 6.N.2):
  • 6.N.1 Compare, order, and represent whole numbers up to 1,000,000.
  • 6.N.2 Investigate and describe properties of whole numbers and number patterns.

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Learning Goals and Objectives

I can…

• Define and explain what whole numbers are.
• Recognize and use whole numbers up to 1,000,000.
• Describe properties of whole numbers (e.g., zero, one, even, odd).
• Explain the importance of whole numbers in everyday life and mathematics.

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Success Criteria

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

• Accurately identify whole numbers and distinguish them from other types of numbers (fractions, decimals, negatives).
• Correctly order and compare whole numbers up to 1,000,000 using symbols (<, >, =).
• Describe basic properties of whole numbers verbally or in writing.
• Participate in class discussions and complete an individual exit slip demonstrating their understanding.

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Materials and Resources

• Whiteboard and markers
• Place value charts (large classroom poster and individual worksheets)
• Number cards (0 to 1,000,000, printed on cardstock)
• Dyslexia-friendly coloured overlays and fonts on handouts
• Visual aids featuring real-world contexts (population data, money, distances)
• Interactive digital tool or number games (optional, projector or tablets)
• Exit slip templates

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Lesson Outline

1. Introduction (10 minutes)

• Begin with a hook question: “What are whole numbers and where do we use them in real life?”
• Show visual examples of whole numbers in context (e.g., population counts, money, sports scores).
• Define whole numbers clearly: Whole numbers are all the positive numbers including zero, with no fractions or decimals.
• Provide examples and non-examples on the board.

Differentiation: Use dyslexia-friendly fonts and coloured overlays for displayed text. Read definitions aloud with clear enunciation.

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2. Guided Discovery & Discussion (15 minutes)

• Using place value charts, explore whole numbers up to 1,000,000 together.
• Play a classroom game “Number Compare” where students receive number cards and arrange themselves in order from lowest to highest.
• Discuss properties: zero as the identity for addition, explanation of even and odd numbers with examples.

Differentiation: Provide smaller number ranges or visual supports for learners needing extra help. Use manipulatives (e.g., base ten blocks or decimal squares) for hands-on clarification.

Extension: Challenge advanced learners to identify and explain prime numbers within the whole numbers and discuss how whole numbers build the foundation for other number types.

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3. Collaborative Activity (15 minutes)

• Split class into small groups (4-5 students) and task them with creating a poster illustrating the properties of whole numbers and real-life examples.
• Encourage use of drawings, written explanations, and number examples.

Differentiation: Provide sentence starters or template sheets for students who benefit from structured support. Groups may include peer mentors for students requiring additional assistance.

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4. Independent Work and Assessment (15 minutes)

• Hand out an exit slip with three questions:
  1. Write an example of a whole number and a non-whole number.
  2. Compare two large whole numbers using <, >, or =.
  3. Describe one property of whole numbers.
• Collect exit slips to assess individual understanding.

Dyslexia-friendly options: Provide exit slip on coloured paper and allow oral responses recorded by the teacher if needed.

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5. Closing and Reflection (5 minutes)

• Recap key points using “I can…” statements.
• Ask students to share one new thing they learned about whole numbers.
• Preview next lesson: exploring addition and subtraction with whole numbers.

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Differentiation Strategies

Learner Needs	Strategies
Visual learners	Use charts, number lines, and coloured overlays
Auditory learners	Verbal explanations and group discussions
Kinesthetic learners	Hands-on number cards and physical ordering activities
Students with dyslexia	Dyslexia-friendly fonts, coloured overlays, oral support
Advanced learners	Explore prime numbers, create number pattern challenges
Students requiring extra support	Small group work with peer mentors, scaffolded handouts

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Extension Activities

• Create a number scavenger hunt: students find and record whole numbers in newspapers, magazines, or around the school.
• Investigate “big numbers” and explore how whole numbers apply in science and technology (e.g., measuring distances in space).
• Digital math games focusing on ordering and properties of whole numbers.

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Teacher Reflection Notes (for future planning)

• Observe how well students engage with hands-on activities versus group discussions.
• Monitor assessment data to identify students requiring additional support or enrichment.
• Consider integrating more technology for visual and interactive learning in upcoming lessons.

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This lesson is designed to build a strong conceptual foundation for whole numbers aligned closely with the Alberta Curriculum expectations for Grade 6. By blending concrete activities, differentiated lessons, and formative assessment, it aims to engage diverse learners and inspire confidence in number sense.