MA 7.06Coin Recognition (U.S. Coins)
The child learns the names of the penny, nickel, dime, and quarter, sorts them, and learns the value of each in cents.
Presentation
- 1
Place one of each coin on a small mat. Look at each with the magnifying glass and describe its color, size, and pictures.
- 2
Three-period lesson with penny, nickel, and dime, then add the quarter.
- 3
The child sorts a mix of coins into groups under the name cards.
- 4
Introduce value: 'A penny is worth one cent. A nickel is worth five cents.' Show that five pennies are worth one nickel.
- 5
Point out that the dime is smaller than the penny but worth more.
- 6
The child matches value cards to coins and checks with the control cards.
- 7
Count the coins back into the box.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Make rubbings of both sides of each coin and label them.
- Pay for a pretend item priced up to 10¢ with pennies.
- Count a group of nickels by 5s or dimes by 10s.
Control of error
Control cards show both sides of each coin with its name and value; the child counts coins in and out of the box.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Names each coin shown at random, either side up
- States the value of each coin
- Sorts a mixed group of coins correctly
Guide note
Coins are a choking hazard. Use only with older children under supervision and count coins in and out. Substitute plastic coins if any child in the room still puts objects in the mouth.