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Lesson 9 of 15
Lesson 9 of 15
New
New
Introducing zero
I know what zero means and know when to use it.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Understand that zero is a number which shows that there is no amount.
- Know the number word used is zero and the symbol used is 0
- Recite rhymes alongside representations to show zero in different contexts.
Keywords
Zero - Zero is the number that represents no amount or objects. When we add zero to a number, the result is just the number, unchanged.
Represent - To represent something is to show it in a different way.
Common misconception
Know later, when zero is added to another number, some children believe the answer is zero.
Secure the idea that zero shows that there is no amount in many ways. Give children zero [noun] to hold.
Explore these slides practically. Recreate five little speckled frogs sat on a speckled log so that children see zero frogs.
Teacher tip
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Say the count. 2, 3, 4. What number comes next?
Say the count. 2, 3, 4. What number comes next?
6
7
Q2.Say the count. 5, 6, 7, 8. What number comes next?
Say the count. 5, 6, 7, 8. What number comes next?
10
11
Q3.We can also count backwards. Say the count. What number comes next?
We can also count backwards. Say the count. What number comes next?
4
5
Q4.Count the legs on the dog. The dog has ___________ legs.
Count the legs on the dog. The dog has ___________ legs.
3
5
Q5.True or false. There are 6 cubes.
True or false. There are 6 cubes.
False
Q6.How many dots are on the dice? Can you say without counting?
How many dots are on the dice? Can you say without counting?
2
3
5
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which numeral represents zero?
Which numeral represents zero?
1
10
Q2.What number comes next? 4, 3, 2, 1?
What number comes next? 4, 3, 2, 1?
2
1
Q3.How many fingers are held up?
How many fingers are held up?
1
2
Q4.Which log has zero frogs?
Which log has zero frogs?
a
c
Q5.Which log has zero frogs?
Which log has zero frogs?
a
b
Q6.True or false. 3 lily pads have zero bugs.
True or false. 3 lily pads have zero bugs.
True