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Coding And Maths

ScratchJr maths: number stories

Use ScratchJr-style projects for ages 5 to 7 to tell addition and subtraction stories with characters.

Quick answer

You can use ScratchJr to create number stories where characters move, speak, and act out addition and subtraction problems. This helps you understand how maths works in a fun, visual way.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to create a simple number story in ScratchJr that shows how numbers can be added or taken away using characters and actions. Success signs:
  • You can make a character move to show adding or subtracting.
  • You can use sounds or speech bubbles to explain the maths.
  • You can create a story that shows a problem and the solution.
  • You can share your story with someone else.

Why this matters

When you make a number story in ScratchJr, you’re not just learning maths – you’re using your imagination and creativity to show how numbers work in real life. You might use numbers to count your toys, work out how many cookies you have left, or even plan a party. This kind of thinking helps you solve problems more easily in school and in everyday life. Even grown-ups use this kind of thinking when they plan a trip, cook a recipe, or play a board game. By creating stories with numbers in ScratchJr, you're getting ready to use maths in a fun and useful way.

How it works

Making a number story in ScratchJr is like writing a story with pictures and sounds. You use characters, actions, and sounds to show what happens when you add or subtract numbers. Here’s how to do it step by step:
  1. Choose a character (or draw one) to be your story hero.
  2. Think of a simple addition or subtraction problem (like 3 + 2 or 5 - 1).
  3. Use the “move” block to show how the character changes.
  4. Use the “say” block to tell the story.
  5. Use the “play sound” block to make your story more fun.
  6. Run your story to see if it makes sense.

Examples you can see

Let’s look at a simple number story: 3 + 2 = 5 Imagine a character called “Pip” who has 3 apples. Then, a friend gives Pip 2 more apples. Now Pip has 5 apples. Here’s how you could make this in ScratchJr:
  1. Start with Pip standing still.
  2. Use the “move” block to make Pip move to the left (to show getting more apples).
  3. Use the “say” block to say “I have 3 apples.”
  4. Use another “move” block to show Pip getting 2 more apples.
  5. Use the “say” block to say “Now I have 5 apples.”
  6. Add a sound to make it fun, like a “ding” when Pip gets the apples.
Another example: 5 - 2 = 3 Pip has 5 bananas. Pip eats 2 bananas. Now Pip has 3 bananas.
  1. Start with Pip with 5 bananas.
  2. Use a “move” block to make Pip eat 2 bananas (like moving them away).
  3. Use the “say” block to say “I had 5 bananas.”
  4. Use another “say” block to say “I ate 2 bananas.”
  5. Use the “say” block to say “Now I have 3 bananas.”
These stories help you see how numbers change when you add or subtract. You can even try making more stories with different numbers.

Try it as a mini adventure

Let’s go on a maths adventure to make a number story with your own character! Adventure: The Number Story Hunt You are a detective in a magical land where numbers come to life. You must create a story using your character to show how numbers can be added or taken away. Here’s your challenge:
  1. Draw or choose a character for your story (it can be anything – a dragon, a robot, a cat, or a dinosaur).
  2. Think of a number story with addition or subtraction (like “I had 4 stars, and I found 3 more.” or “I had 6 toys, and I gave 2 away.”).
  3. Use the “move” block to show your character doing something with the numbers.
  4. Use the “say” block to tell the story.
  5. Add sounds or music to make your story fun.
  6. Run your story and see if it makes sense!
Try making two number stories – one with addition and one with subtraction. You can even show your story to a parent or friend.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Using the wrong number in the story. Why it happens: Sometimes it’s easy to mix up the numbers when you’re making a story. Fix: Count your steps or use objects to check your numbers before you make your story.
  • Mistake: Not using the “say” block to explain the story. Why it happens: It can be fun to just move the character, but people need to understand what’s happening. Fix: Always add a “say” block so your story explains the maths clearly.
  • Mistake: Forgetting to test the story. Why it happens: When you’re excited to make a story, you might skip the final step. Fix: Always press the green flag to run your story and see if it works like you planned.

Parent and carer guide

As a parent or carer, you can help your child by:
  • Encouraging them to think of real-life stories for their numbers (like sharing toys or counting snacks).
  • Helping them check their numbers with objects like counters or blocks.
  • Letting them explain their story out loud before making it in ScratchJr.
  • Not worrying if their story isn’t perfect – the main goal is to learn through play.
  • Using the time to talk about how the story connects to maths they’ve learned at school.
You can also try making a story together! Let your child choose a character and a number, and then help them make it come alive in ScratchJr.

Practice questions

  1. What number story could you make with 2 + 3?
  2. How would you show 7 - 4 in a ScratchJr story?
  3. Can you think of a character and a story for 5 + 1?
  4. What sound could you use to show a character getting more apples?
  5. Why is it helpful to use the “say” block in your story?
Answers:
  1. A character has 2 apples and finds 3 more. Now they have 5 apples.
  2. A character has 7 toys and gives 4 away. Now they have 3 toys.
  3. A dinosaur has 5 cookies and finds 1 more. Now they have 6 cookies.
  4. A “ding” or a “chime” sound.
  5. It helps explain what is happening in the story so others can understand the maths.

FAQ

What is a number story in ScratchJr?

A number story in ScratchJr is a short story that shows how numbers can be added or taken away using characters and actions.

Can I make a number story with any numbers?

Yes! You can make stories with any numbers you like, from 0 to 10 or even higher.

Do I need to know how to code to make a number story?

No! ScratchJr is designed for young children, so you can make stories using simple blocks without needing to know how to write code.

Can I share my number story with others?

Yes! You can share your story by showing it to a parent, friend, or teacher.

How can I make my number story more fun?

You can add sounds, music, and more characters to make your story exciting!