Completing groups of 0-5 (more than, fewer than, equal to)

Tips on how to use this exercise at home and at school.

Completing groups of 0-5 (more than, fewer than, equal to)

Early math concepts


In the previous exercise, the child identified situations featuring more, fewer, or an equal number of pictures. Now, they will actively form groups of pictures following specific instructions. This activity will allow them to demonstrate their comprehension of comparison scenarios. If one group contains fewer objects, another will have more. Throughout this exercise, they will work with up to 5 pictures.


Why is this exercise important?
When comparing quantities, the child applies the matching skills they have already acquired. For instance, if there are 5 children, they need 5 chairs. By matching each chair to a child, they can determine whether the number of chairs is equal to, greater than, or less than the number of children, and understand what these comparisons signify. Through pairing, the child develops an understanding of relationships. Initially, the child may view all situations as identical, but upon realizing that they cannot give each friend a sweet, for example, they learn that they have fewer candies, indicating there are more friends than candies. This realization lays the groundwork for a deeper comprehension of numerical relationships in the future.

Who is this exercise suitable for?
It is typically incorporated into preschool or early elementary school activities. Besides number concepts and logical reasoning, it also fosters the development of language skills.

Methodological recommendations
We can proceed to the exercise only once we are certain the child thoroughly understands the concepts of 'more' and 'less'.

Initially, the child might struggle to determine the correct number of pictures for each frame. In such instances, allow them to hear the instructions again.

Encouraging the child to think out loud can help enhance their understanding and alleviate the load on their working memory.

Tips for similar activities beyond the app

  • Split sweets into two piles. Distribute them so that you have more sweets than Mom. Who has the larger pile of candy? You or Mom?
  • Practice understanding the concepts of 'higher' and 'lower' using stairs. Who is standing higher than you? Who is standing lower? Now, position yourself so you are lower than me. What actions do you need to take?
  • Construct with blocks a building that is taller or shorter than mine. Next, adjust the buildings to make them the same height. What adjustments are necessary?