Comparing numbers to 20
You can compare groups using the the language 'more than', 'less than', 'fewer than' and 'the same as'.
Comparing numbers to 20
You can compare groups using the the language 'more than', 'less than', 'fewer than' and 'the same as'.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Compare collections of up to 20 items.
- Use comparative language of more, less and fewer.
- Introduce the idea of one more and one less.
- Know that sets of objects can be the same or equal.
Keywords
More than - A bigger set has more than a smaller set.
Less than - A smaller set has less than a larger set.
Fewer than - A smaller set has fewer than a larger set.
The same as - Sets can contain the same as each other having the same number of objects, actions or sounds.
Equal to - Sets can be equal to each other having the same number of objects, actions or sounds.
Common misconception
Linking one more or one less than a number to the number after or before in the count.
Use objects to model one more being added or one being removed to show one less or fewer.
To help you plan your year 1 maths lesson on: Comparing numbers to 20, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 1 maths lesson on: Comparing numbers to 20, 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 to and from 20 unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions

Exit quiz
6 Questions





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