An introduction to number
concepts and Preparatory
Mathematics using bottle tops and
lids
This is the “Light on learn through
play” way to DEVELOP a love for
and an interest in mathematics!
Apparatus/Equipment
• Collect enough lids and/or bottle
tops for all the children in your
class. Make sure you have an
assortment of different colours,
shapes, sizes and materials.
• If you like, ask the children to
collect the lids and bottle tops at
home. This is a wonderful way to
encourage recycling.
• Collect cardboard cool drink or
beer trays. These will be used to
hold the lids and bottle tops and to
place them for spatial play.
Introduction
Understanding mathematical concepts
is about understanding mathematical
language. Language, together with
emphasising the correct use of the
language for colours, body parts,
position, comparing size and shapes is
50 •
• June/July 2014
very important.
Did you know?
• A child must hear a word at least
500 times before it becomes part
of his vocabulary. So language is
very important in every one of your
classroom activities. The challenge
for teachers and parents is to make
mathematics fun, practical and alive
with possibilities! Use whatever you
have to ignite a love for learning.
Steps/Instructions
1. Body image and position
• Divide the class into pairs – each
child needs some tops/lids and a
shared cardboard tray.
• Tell all the children to take one top
each (the teacher demonstrates
while speaking). Tell the children
to put the top on different parts
of their own bodies – head, knee,
nose, ear, tummy, foot, elbow, etc.
• Now let them do the same, but
this time on their partners’ bodies.
Watch as the children place the
tops on different parts of their
partners’ bodies – head, elbow,