The best way to teach “before, between, and after” is through hands-on activities, visual cues, and playful repetition. Use toys, number lines, and storytelling to make the concept concrete and fun. Be creative and combine activities with the class theme, such as using the spots on the leopard or ladybird.
🧠 Why It Matters
Understanding “before, between, and after” builds number sense, which is foundational for Mathematics fluency, sequencing, and problem-solving. It also strengthens spatial reasoning and prepares learners for place value and patterns.
🧸 Engaging Teaching Ideas
1. Number Line Adventures
- Use a large floor number line or draw one on a poster.
- Have learners “walk” to a number and ask:
- “What number comes before?”
- “What number comes after?”
- “Stand between 4 and 6—what number are you?”
2. Toy Train Game
- Line up 3–5 toy animals or blocks with numbers.
- Ask: “Who is sitting before number 3?” “Who is between 2 and 4?”
- Let learners rearrange and explain their choices.
3. Story-Based Learning
- Create short stories: “Lulu the Leopard stood between Benny the Frog (number 2) and Tilly the Turtle (number 4). What number is Lulu?”
- Use character-driven visuals to reinforce positions.
4. Interactive Worksheets
- Use fill-in-the-blank sheets:
- “___ comes before 7.”
- “___ is between 5 and 7.”
- “___ comes after 9.”
- EDUGIZELLE offers printable resources.
5. Real-Life Objects
- Use fruit, crayons, or shoes. Line them up and number them.
- Ask learners to pick the item that’s “between” two others or “after” a certain one.
🎯 Tips for Success
- Use repetition with variation: Keep the structure familiar but change the numbers or objects.
- Praise reasoning: Ask learners to explain their answers—this builds confidence and deeper understanding.
- Visuals matter: Use colour-coded numbers, mascots, or themed décor (like ladybirds or leopards!) to make it memorable.