Grade 2 Mathematics Lesson Plan: Number Names and Number Symbols

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Materials Needed:

  • Flashcards with number symbols (1 to 20) and number names.
  • Whiteboard and markers.
  • Worksheets with matching number names to symbols exercises.
  • Counting objects (e.g., small toys or counters).
  • Interactive math software (optional, if digital tools are available).

Learning Objectives:

  • Students will be able to identify and write number names for numbers 1 to 20.
  • Students will be able to match number names with their corresponding number symbols.
  • Students will gain confidence in using number names and symbols in practical examples.

Vocabulary:

  1. Number symbol: A graphical representation of a number (e.g., 1, 2, 3).
  2. Number name: The written word for a number (e.g., one, two, three).
  3. Count: To determine the total number of items in a group.
  4. Match: To pair something with its corresponding item.
  5. Recognise: To identify something from previous knowledge.

Previous Learning:

In the previous lessons, students have learned basic counting skills and recognising number symbols from 1 to 10. They have also participated in activities that involve grouping small objects to understand quantity and counting principles.

Anticipated Challenges and Solutions:


  • Challenge: Students may confuse number names with other words due to similar spelling.

    Solution: Use flashcards and repetitive chant-like activities to reinforce correct associations.



  • Challenge: Some students may struggle with writing number names correctly.

    Solution: Provide tracing sheets for guided practice and individual support.


Beginning Activities (4 minutes):

  1. Introduction to Learning Objectives:

  2. Briefly explain today’s goals: learning to match numbers with their names and recognising both.



  3. Activate Prior Knowledge:


  4. Use counting objects to review numbers 1 to 10.
  5. Ask questions like “What is this number?” while showing number symbols from 1 to 10.

Middle Activities (32 minutes):

  1. Direct Instruction (8 minutes):
  2. Introduce number symbols from 11 to 20 and their respective names using flashcards.

  3. Demonstrate how to match a number name with its symbol using the whiteboard and example cards.



  4. Guided Practice (12 minutes):


  5. Hand out flashcards to pairs of students and have them match number symbols with the correct number names.

  6. Circulate the room to support and check for understanding.



  7. Independent Practice (12 minutes):


  8. Distribute worksheets with exercises such as connecting number symbols to the correct number names.
  9. Encourage students to use counting objects to help them if needed.

End Activities (4 minutes):

  1. Exit Ticket Activity:
  2. Ask each student to write down a number symbol and its corresponding number name on a small piece of paper.
  3. Collect these as they leave to review their understanding.

Assessment and Checks for Understanding:

  • Use the completed matching exercises and worksheets to assess student comprehension.
  • During guided practice, listen and provide immediate feedback to ensure students are correctly matching number names and symbols.
  • Collect and review exit tickets to gauge individual understanding and identify any persistent challenges.

Differentiation Strategies for Diverse Learners:

  • Scaffolding: Provide tracing sheets and additional practice for students who need more support with writing.
  • Extension: Challenge advanced learners with numbers beyond 20 or introduce simple arithmetic with the numbers they have learned.
  • Visual Aids: Use large, colourful flashcards and counting objects for visual learners.

Teaching Notes:

  • This lesson is foundational for understanding more complex number skills, setting the stage for arithmetic and larger number concepts.
  • Emphasise repetition and verbal practice to solidify learning.
  • Use inclusive language and be mindful of diverse learning needs, ensuring all students have equitable access to materials.
  • For students with disabilities, provide hands-on tools (like tactile numbers) and adjust activities to ensure comprehensibility and engagement.

This lesson encourages active participation and reinforces the recognition and writing of number names and symbols, crucial for developing early numeracy skills aligned with the CAPS curriculum.