Unit Plan 24 (Grade K Math): Positions & Paths

Focus: Use positional words—above, below, next to/beside, in front of, behind—to describe locations of objects and to give/follow simple routes on mats, pictures, and classroom obstacle paths.

Grade Level: K

Subject Area: Mathematics (Geometry—Location & Position)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 30–40 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Students learn to describe where objects are using positional words. They practice placing and locating items in scenes, on mats/grids, and in the classroom (mini obstacle paths). By week’s end, they can give and follow short routes that use precise location language.

Essential Questions

• How can I tell where something is using positional words?
• What makes a clear direction so another person can follow it?
• How do pictures, arrows, or a simple map help me show a route?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Use positional words (above, below, next to/beside, in front of, behind) to describe object locations.
2. Place objects to match a spoken/written positional direction and check accuracy.
3. Give and follow a short sequence of positional directions to travel a simple path.
4. Create a picture/map that shows object positions and a route from start to finish.

Standards Alignment — CCSS Kindergarten (threaded across the unit)

• K.G.1: Describe objects in the environment using names of shapes, and describe the relative positions of these objects using terms such as above, below, beside/next to, in front of, behind.
• Mathematical Practices: MP.6 (precision in language), MP.4 (model with pictures/maps), MP.3 (explain/critique directions), MP.5 (use tools—mats, arrows).

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can say and show where something is using positional words.
• I can follow directions to place or move an object on a mat or around the room.
• I can draw and explain a short route from start to finish.