Using directional language
I can use the words left, right, up and down to follow and give directions.
Using directional language
I can use the words left, right, up and down to follow and give directions.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Left and right can be used to describe position and direction.
- Directions can be given using left, right, up and down.
Keywords
Left - A word used to describe position or the direction of a turn. When facing North, left is to the West.
Right - A word used to describe position or the direction of a turn. When facing North, right is to the East.
Up - Towards a higher place or position. From a lower to a higher point.
Down - Towards a lower place or position. From a higher to a lower point.
Common misconception
Children can find it difficult to understand that another person's left is not is the same as their own - for example, when facing someone, their partner's left hand is on the opposite side to theirs.
Model directions from the children's own perspective - face the same way they are facing when you are describing what is on the left and right.
To help you plan your year 1 maths lesson on: Using directional language, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 1 maths lesson on: Using directional language, 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 Position and direction including fractions of turns 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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