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Maths Adventures

Arctic maths quest: counting

A story-led junior maths adventure using ice maps, temperature and survival supplies to count objects, compare amounts and spot missing numbers.

Quick answer

Counting is the first step in learning maths, and it helps you know how many things you have, compare groups, and find missing numbers. In the Arctic, you'll need to count snowballs, penguins, and ice blocks to survive your adventure!

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to:
  • Count objects accurately up to 20
  • Compare groups of objects to see which has more or fewer
  • Find missing numbers in counting sequences
  • Use counting to solve simple Arctic survival problems

Why this matters

Counting is like your superpower for maths! It helps you:
  • Know how many cookies you have to share
  • See if you have enough ice blocks to build a shelter
  • Keep track of your penguin friends in the cold
  • Find out how many snowballs you need to make a snowman
  • Plan your Arctic journey using distances and supplies

How it works

Counting means saying numbers in order, like 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and so on. When you count objects, you touch or point to each one once, and say the next number. This helps you know exactly how many there are.

Examples you can see

Let's imagine you're on an Arctic adventure with your friend, and you're collecting ice blocks to build your igloo:
Ice Block Collection Number of Blocks
First pile 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Second pile 1, 2, 3, 4
Third pile 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Comparing groups: The third pile has 6 blocks, which is more than the first pile (5) and second pile (4). You can see this by counting each pile carefully. Missing numbers: You're counting your ice blocks, but you skip one. You say: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7. You missed the number 4!

Try it as a mini adventure

Arctic Survival Challenge: You're on a sled with your friend, and you need to collect supplies. You have a list of items to find:
  1. 3 snowballs
  2. 5 ice cubes
  3. 2 penguins
  4. 4 snowmen
You're on your way to find these items. You've found 1 snowball, 3 ice cubes, 1 penguin, and 2 snowmen. How many more of each item do you need?
  • Snowballs: 3 - 1 = 2 more needed
  • Ice cubes: 5 - 3 = 2 more needed
  • Penguins: 2 - 1 = 1 more needed
  • Snowmen: 4 - 2 = 2 more needed

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Counting the same object twice or missing one object.
    Why it happens: When you're excited or in a hurry, you might not pay attention to each object.
    Fix: Touch or move each object as you count it to make sure you don't miss or double-count.
  • Mistake: Saying numbers out of order or skipping numbers.
    Why it happens: Young children sometimes mix up the order of numbers.
    Fix: Practice counting in order with your fingers or objects. Use a number line to help.
  • Mistake: Thinking that more objects always mean a bigger number.
    Why it happens: If you have 5 small toys and 3 big toys, you might think the 5 small ones are more.
    Fix: Count each group carefully and compare the numbers, not the size of the objects.

Parent and carer guide

You can help your child by:
  • Counting things around the house together: 3 cups, 5 spoons, 2 books
  • Playing counting games like "Count the steps" or "Count the cars"
  • Using real objects like blocks, toys, or food to practice counting
  • Encouraging your child to say numbers in order when they're playing
  • Pointing out numbers in the world around you: "Look, there are 10 windows in that building"
What to watch for:
  • Your child might skip numbers or say them out of order
  • They might count the same object twice
  • They might not understand that the last number said means "how many"
What not to worry about:
  • They might not count perfectly at first
  • Mistakes are part of learning
  • Keep it fun and playful, not like a test

Practice questions

  1. Count the snowballs in this picture: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. How many snowballs are there? Answer: 5
  2. Which group has more penguins? Group A: 1, 2, 3, 4. Group B: 1, 2, 3. Answer: Group A has more penguins
  3. Count the ice cubes: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6. What number did you miss? Answer: 4
  4. How many snowmen can you see? 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Answer: 6
  5. You have 8 ice blocks. You give 3 to your friend. How many do you have left? Answer: 5

FAQ

Why is counting so important?

Counting helps you understand how many of something you have. It's the first step in learning maths and helps you solve problems in daily life.

How can I practice counting with my child at home?

You can count toys, steps, or food items together. Try counting backwards too! Use songs or rhymes to help with number order.

What if my child gets confused when counting?

It's normal! Try using physical objects to help them count. Make it fun and keep practicing. Don't rush – take your time.

How do I know if my child is ready for more advanced maths?

If they can count to 20, compare groups, and understand that the last number tells how many, they're ready for simple addition or subtraction.

What are some Arctic-themed counting games?

Try "Count the penguins in the ice hole", "Find the missing number in the snowflake pattern", or "Build a snowman with exactly 3 buttons".