Materials
plastic numbers 1 to 9 that will float
numbers 1 to 10 that will sink (numbers 1 to 10 painted on smooth stones or printed on ceramic tiles
with permanent marker)
Instructions
* Print or paint the numbers on the heavy materials listed to the left and let dry.
* Place all the materials at the water table.
What to Do
1. Invite the children to explore with the numbers at the water table.
2. As the children explore, have them identify which numbers float and which
numbers sink.
3. Encourage the children to talk about the various numbers using sentences to
describe each number. "Plastic number 2 floats on top of the water. The
number 4 stone sinks to the bottom."
4. When the children are finished playing, have them display all the numbers on
a table nearby so the next group of children may see if they sink or float.
Teacher - to - Teacher Tip
* Invite older children to sink and float pairs of numbers together to form a new
number, and then say the new number aloud: "A two with a four is 24."
Assessment
To assess the children's learning, consider the following:
* Do the children understand the concepts of sinking and floating?
* Display all the numbers in the water. Gather a group of children around as
you point out various numbers. Can each child identify the numbers?
