Using positional and proportional language

I can describe the position of an object using the correct vocabulary.

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Using positional and proportional language

I can describe the position of an object using the correct vocabulary.

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Key learning points

Most positional words describe where an object is in relation to one other position.
In between describes where an object is in relation to two other positions.

Keywords

Above/below - Above shows the position of an object is higher than something else. Below shows that it is lower.
Over/under/on - Over/under shows the position of something is directly above/beneath something else. On shows that it is sitting on top of something else.
In front/behind - In front shows the position of an object is further forward than something else. Behind shows that it is further back.
Between - Between describes the position of an object being in the space separating two other objects.

Common misconception

Children may confuse some of the terms such as 'below' and 'between'.

Create visuals to display which will prompt children to think about the meaning of each word. Give opportunities to explore these words in play, for example when building with blocks ask children to place the red block above the green block.

Look for additional opportunities for children to explore positional language in their daily routines and within their own environment, for example 'put the book on the shelf above the toys'. Other subjects such as PE and computing can also be a helpful context to explore positional language.

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).