Champion Rosettes: Number Recognition Maths Activity for Grand National

Rosettes are a wonderful, visual symbol of participation and effort in equestrian events. In this continuous provision maths activity, children order numbered paper rosettes and match them with corresponding quantities of 'horseshoes'.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Make the Rosettes

Use scrap card or paper plates to create 10 simple rosettes. Write a large, clear number from 1 to 10 in the centre of each one using a thick marker pen.

2. Set Up the Station

Place the mixed-up rosettes in a tuff tray or on a low maths table. Next to them, place a basket filled with the counters or cardboard horseshoes ready for the children to access.

3. Order the Numbers

When a child visits the table, challenge them to arrange the rosettes in a line from 1 to 10. Ask: "Which number comes first? Can you find the number that comes after 4?"

4. Match the Horseshoes

Once the rosettes are ordered, ask the children to count out the correct number of counters or horseshoes to match the number written on each rosette.

5. Extend the Play

If you have made the rosettes in different colours, encourage the children to sort them into colour groups first, before looking at the numbers. Praise their counting efforts loudly!

Classroom Adaptations

Large class?

Create two or three sets of rosettes so multiple children can play the sorting game simultaneously.

Limited resources?

Simply draw rosettes onto a large whiteboard and have children stick magnetic counters to them.

EAL learners?

Model the counting on your fingers as you say the numbers aloud, encouraging them to repeat.

High ability?

Introduce basic addition by asking what happens if they add one more horseshoe to the rosette.