Cute bears, blocks and sticks are useful math manipulatives in a primary classroom. The items can be used to learn and demonstrate a knowledge of number values. They can be used to fill in the blocks for simple pictographs. Math manipulatives can be used to demonstrate the meaning of adding or subtracting numbers. Manipulatives do not have to be purchased. Pebbles can be used to represent numbers as well. Math manipulatives provide visual representations that allow students to internalize the numbers and the quantities they represent.
Have students create an art piece out of colorful cereals on a sturdy piece of construction paper. They can make a landscape, a seascape or a skyscape. Take a picture of each child's creation and then have the child fill out a form that lists how many pieces of each color cereal that the child used, grouping them by color. If the child is advanced in her math skills, she can add all the cereals together. If she struggles, should could count them all together.
Children can learn numeracy and have the lessons reinforced through games and activities. "Around the World" is a flashcard card in which one child stands next to another student and they both try to be the first child to get the answer for a flashcard the leader shows them. Only the winner goes on, with the goal of going all around the "world" and make it back to their own desk. Board games, interactive whiteboard games and computer-based games can also be used to teach primary students about the world of numbers.
From "Knick Knack Paddy Whack" to "99 Bottles of Pop on the Wall," songs can be used to teach numeracy to primary children. Books, such as "Alexander Who Used to be Rich Last Sunday," by Judith Viorst, can be used to teach children the meaning of subtracting while enjoying the story about a boy who spends his money unwisely and meets with misfortune. Songs and stories help children relate to the subject of math in a fun way.