Number Composition Fun

Overview

This 30-minute lesson aims to teach Reception pupils how numbers from 1 to 10 can be composed from smaller parts. Children will develop an understanding that numbers can be made up of two or more smaller numbers, laying the foundation for addition and number relationships as outlined in the National Curriculum for England for Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

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Alignment with National Curriculum (England)

EYFS Early Learning Goals: Mathematics

• Number
  • Children count reliably with numbers from 1 to 20.
  • They recognise numerals 1 to 20.
  • They explore the composition of numbers to 10.
• Development Matters:
  • Children begin to identify one more or one less from a group of up to five objects.
  • Children show an understanding of number bonds and count on or back to find the answer.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of the session, pupils will:

• Understand that numbers 1-10 can be made up of smaller parts (composition of numbers).
• Be able to represent numbers to 10 using objects and pictures in different ways.
• Begin to recall some number bonds to 10 through play and exploration.

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Resources

• Counters or small objects (e.g., buttons, cubes) – at least 150 pieces total
• Whiteboards and dry wipe markers (one per child)
• Number cards (1 to 10)
• Ten frames mats (one per pair)
• Storybook or visual props featuring counting (optional to tie storytelling to numbers)
• Large magnetic numbers and part-part-whole frames on the board or wall

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Lesson Structure

Time	Activity	Details & Purpose
0-5 min	Introduction & Warm-Up	Gather children in a circle. Sing a counting rhyme (e.g., “Ten Green Bottles”). Recap numbers 1-10 by counting.
5-10 min	Composer’s Corner: Exploring Number Parts	Using counters, show 5 objects. Ask, “Can we split 5 into two groups in different ways?” Model with counters on ten frames. Invite children to try splitting numbers 1-10 using counters. Use language like “part and whole” to introduce terminology. Introduce number bonds as “number friends.”
10-20 min	Hands-On Exploration: Part-Part-Whole Game	Children work in pairs with ten frames and counters. Give each pair a number card (e.g. 7). Challenge: “Show me two parts that make 7.” Encourage different ways to make number 7 (e.g., 3 and 4, 5 and 2). Circulate and prompt “Can you show me a different number friend for 7?” Ask “Which part is bigger/smaller?” Bring in dry wipe boards if children want to draw their parts.
20-25 min	Class Number Story	Create a “number story” as a group for a selected number (e.g., 8). “There were 8 apples on a tree, some fell off…” Ask children to suggest part-whole splits and illustrate on board with magnetic numbers and counters. This story approach helps embed concept by using imagination and context.
25-30 min	Plenary and Assessment	Quick oral quiz: Hold up number cards 1-10 randomly and ask, “Can you show me two parts that make this number using your fingers or counters?” Provide positive reinforcement. Summarise by recapping the concept of numbers being made up of smaller numbers. Write a simple two-way observation checklist on children's understanding to inform future planning.

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Assessment

• Formative during activities: Observe children’s ability to partition numbers and identify number bonds.
• Use observational notes to assess if pupils:
  • Can split numbers up to 10 into two smaller groups.
  • Recognise there are multiple ways to compose a number.
  • Use correct language (e.g., parts, whole, number bonds).
• Support less confident learners with one-to-one or small group practise during free play.

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Differentiation

• For lower ability pupils: Start with numbers 1-5, using visual aids and concrete objects, focusing on one more/one less.
• For higher ability pupils: Challenge to find all possible part-part-whole combinations of given numbers, introduce simple addition sentences (e.g., 3 + 4 = 7).
• Use peer modelling and pair activities to encourage collaborative learning.

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Extension Ideas

• Story sacks featuring numbers and counting objects for classroom exploration.
• Interactive number bond wall chart for children to add parts independently.
• Incorporate technology with simple number bond games on tablets with touch screens.

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Reflection and Next Steps

• After the lesson, reflect on children's engagement and understanding of number composition.
• Plan next sessions to explore addition with number bonds, moving gradually towards simple addition and subtraction operations as per EYFS Curriculum targets.
• Ensure activities link with language development and continuous provision areas.

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This lesson takes a playful, hands-on, and child-centred approach ensuring early mathematical understanding is fun, meaningful, and deeply rooted in the National Curriculum (England) requirements for Reception children.