Mathematics: Ages 6–7 (Year 2)
During Year 2, your child will continue to develop their counting and mathematical skills, learning various methods for multiplication and division. They will also expand their understanding of fractions. Topics covered include measurement of length, weight, volume, temperature, time, and money. Additionally, your child will explore 2D and 3D shapes and begin to delve into statistics.
In Year 2, your child will:
- Count in steps of 2, 3, 5, and 10.
- Learn number bonds to 20.
- Practice partitioning numbers into tens and ones to facilitate addition and subtraction of one-digit and two-digit numbers.
- Be taught the 2, 5, and 10 times tables.
- Learn to find fractions such as one-half (½), one-third (⅓), one-fourth (¼), and three-fourths (¾) of quantities and shapes.
Much of their learning will involve practical problem-solving with objects, and there are simple activities you can do at home to support their mathematical development.
How to Assist at Home:
You don’t need to be a math expert to support your child’s mathematical growth or nurture their sense of numbers. Here are three straightforward yet effective ways to engage with your child using everyday items at home:
- Partition Numbers:
Explain partitioning, which involves breaking numbers into parts. Use objects like straws grouped in tens to demonstrate numbers split into tens and ones. Encourage your child to find different ways to partition a number. For example, 54 could be partitioned as 50 + 4, 40 + 14, 30 + 24, 20 + 34, or 10 + 44. - Create Stories:
Collaboratively invent addition and subtraction stories. For instance, you could say, “Two badgers, three hedgehogs, and a toad have a picnic. How many animals are there altogether?” Then continue, “Four rabbits join in. How many are there now?” Finally, pose, “Two animals go home. How many are left?” - Play Shopkeeper:
To help your child become familiar with the values of different coins and notes, engage in role-play as a shopkeeper. Price toys, and take turns being the customer who pays and the shopkeeper who calculates the change. This practical experience will reinforce your child’s understanding of money.
