Here’s a set of worksheets I made for the kids in our Down Syndrome co-op to help them recognize and count coins of the same type.
Many of the money units I’ve seen are either only in black and white, or too busy. This makes it difficult for our kids to use. Our students need clean, uncluttered worksheets with clear large pictures and text. They also have better success when there is only ONE type of activity per page.
Here’s what I made for our first unit on money:
We start with a very simple booklet that teaches them the names and values of the coins. For example:
For students who do not yet have a strong number sense, letting them visualize the value of each coin on a ten-frame is very helpful.
Next, we use Montessori Three-Part Cards to help them memorize the names of the coins. For example:
These cards show both the front and back of each coin. Students use the method of matching, selecting, and naming to learn the names of the coins and to read the words by sight.
Sorting coins also helps students visually discrimate them:
You can use real coins. We use play money … this set has a container and lid which keeps everything organized and easy to store. (This post uses Amazon affiliate links.)
Tracing and matching activities further solidifies their knowledge of the names of the coins and their values:
And then the students start counting coins. First pennies:
Then nickels:
Next dimes, and finally quarters.
In this set, students only count ONE type of coin. This helps them to master counting by 5s, 10, and 25s before counting mixed coins.
TIP #1: Using a hundred-bead rekenrek along side these work sheets really helps students SEE THE VALUE of the coins. This is so important for the development of number sense.
TIP #2: Practice counting with real or play coins for review and reinforcement. Use counting mats if your child needs help counting.
Download Let’s Learn About Money A for free below:
Download the coin counting mats here:
And stayed tuned for Let’s Learn About Money B: Counting Mixed Coins within 20.