Welcome to Year 1 Maths! This term, we’re laying the foundations for confident mathematical thinking using the White Rose Maths approach. Our focus is on building number fluency, understanding key concepts, and developing problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way.

➕ Maths – Autumn 2: Numbers and Shapes

This half term in Maths, Year 1 will continue to build confidence with numbers within 20, while exploring addition, subtraction, and 2D and 3D shapes. We’ll use lots of practical activities, games, and visual models to help children understand and explain their thinking.

 What We’re Learning

 Addition and Subtraction within 10

• Children will practise adding and subtracting numbers using objects, pictures, and number lines.
• We’ll learn how to write addition and subtraction number sentences (e.g. 7 + 2 = 9).
• Children will explore fact families and understand how numbers are linked (e.g. 5 + 3 = 8, 8 - 3 = 5).
• We’ll talk about part–whole relationships and use these to solve simple word problems.

 Shape and Pattern

• Children will learn to recognise, name and describe common 2D shapes (e.g. circle, square, triangle, rectangle) and 3D shapes (e.g. cube, sphere, cone, cylinder).
• We’ll look at the properties of shapes — counting sides, corners and faces.
• Children will make and continue simple repeating patterns using shapes, colours, and objects.

 Numbers to 20

• We’ll extend our number knowledge to numbers 11–20.
• Children will learn how these numbers are made from 10 and some more (e.g. 14 = 10 + 4).
• We’ll practise counting forwards and backwards, reading and writing numbers, and comparing which is greater or smaller.

🧠 Skills We’re Developing

• Counting forwards and backwards within 20
• Reading, writing, and ordering numbers
• Understanding addition and subtraction as combining and taking away
• Recognising 2D and 3D shapes and describing their features
• Using mathematical language confidently (e.g. more than, fewer than, equal to, corner, edge, face)
• Explaining how we know our answers are correct

🎲 How We’re Learning

• Using manipulatives such as cubes, counters, and tens frames to support understanding
• Playing maths games to build fluency and recall
• Working on reasoning and problem-solving through simple challenges
• Practising mental maths with fun warm-ups and counting songs

🏡 How You Can Support at Home

• Practise counting forwards and backwards to 20 and beyond.
• Use everyday objects (toys, coins, fruit) to make up simple addition and subtraction stories.
• Spot and name 2D and 3D shapes around your home or on walks.
• Play quick number games — “What’s one more/one less than 7?”
• Use White Rose 1-Minute Maths App for fun, bite-sized daily practice.
• Encourage your child to explain their thinking – “How do you know?”