Introducing zero
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I know what zero means and know when to use it.
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.
Teacher tip
Explore these slides practically. Recreate five little speckled frogs sat on a speckled log so that children see zero frogs.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Say the count. 2, 3, 4. What number comes next?
Q2.Say the count. 5, 6, 7, 8. What number comes next?
Q3.We can also count backwards. Say the count. What number comes next?
Q4.Count the legs on the dog. The dog has ___________ legs.
Q5.True or false. There are 6 cubes.
Q6.How many dots are on the dice? Can you say without counting?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which numeral represents zero?
Q2.What number comes next? 4, 3, 2, 1?
Q3.How many fingers are held up?
Q4.Which log has zero frogs?
Q5.Which log has zero frogs?
Q6.True or false. 3 lily pads have zero bugs.
To help you plan your 1 maths lesson on: Introducing zero, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 1 maths lesson on: Introducing zero, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 1 maths lessons from the Counting, recognising and comparing numbers 0 - 10 unit, dive into the full primary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.