Unit Plan 3 (PreK Math): Comparing to 5
Compare sets and numerals 0–5 using one-to-one matching, five-frames, and dot pictures; describe which has more, fewer, or the same to build early comparison language.
Focus: Use “more,” “fewer,” and “same” to compare sets up to 5; begin comparing numerals 0–5 in simple pairs.
Grade Level: PreK
Subject Area: Mathematics (Counting & Cardinality)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 20–30 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Children build comparison language and reasoning within 0–5. They match objects one-to-one, line up two sets, and decide which has more, fewer, or the same number. They also begin to compare numerals (0–5) by saying which is “more” or if they are “the same,” supported by pictures and five-frames.
Essential Questions
- How can I tell if one group has more, fewer, or the same as another?
- How does matching objects help me compare two sets?
- How can pictures, five-frames, and numerals help me check my thinking?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Compare two sets (0–5) and tell whether one has more, fewer, or the same.
- Use one-to-one matching or lining up objects to justify a comparison.
- Begin to compare numerals 0–5 and say which numeral shows “more” or “the same.”
- Use five-frames or dot pictures to confirm a comparison.
Standards Alignment — Custom CCSS-style Pre-Kindergarten
- PK.CC.7: Compare sets (more, fewer, same) to 10. Compares two groups with/without counting (small numbers).
- PK.CC.8: Compare numerals 0–5. Says which numeral is greater/equal in simple pairs (e.g., “5 is more than 3”).
- Mathematical Practices (MP.1–MP.6) threaded throughout (perseverance, reasoning, modeling, tools, precision, structure).
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can match objects in two groups to see which has more, fewer, or the same.
- I can use a five-frame or dot picture to check my comparison.
- I can look at numerals 0–5 and say which is more or if they are the same.