Key Stage 1

Key Stage 1 (KS1) mathematics covers ages 5-7 (Years 1 and 2) in the primary education system. During this crucial stage, children develop fundamental mathematical concepts and skills that form the foundation for their future mathematical learning.

Core Areas of Learning

Number and Place Value

• Understanding numbers up to 100

• Counting forwards and backwards in steps of 1, 2, 5, and 10

• Reading and writing numbers in numerals and words

• Recognizing place value (tens and ones)

• Comparing and ordering numbers using <, >, and = signs

• Identifying odd and even numbers

Addition and Subtraction

• Understanding addition and subtraction as both operations and relationships

• Memorizing number bonds to 20

• Adding and subtracting one-digit and two-digit numbers

• Solving problems involving addition and subtraction

• Understanding and using mathematical symbols (+, -, =)

• Recognizing that addition can be done in any order (commutative law)

Multiplication and Division

• Understanding multiplication as repeated addition

• Learning multiplication facts for 2, 5, and 10 times tables

• Understanding division as sharing and grouping

• Solving simple problems involving multiplication and division

• Using arrays to represent multiplication

Fractions

• Recognizing, finding, naming, and writing fractions (1/3, 1/4, 2/4, 3/4)

• Understanding fractions as equal parts of a whole

• Finding simple fractions of quantities

• Comparing and ordering simple fractions

Measurement

• Measuring and comparing:

  • Length/height (m/cm)

  • Mass (kg/g)

  • Temperature (°C)

  • Capacity (litres/ml)

• Telling time to the hour, half hour, and quarter hour

• Recognizing coins and notes

• Solving simple money problems

Geometry

• Properties of Shapes:

  • Identifying and describing 2D shapes

  • Identifying and describing 3D shapes

  • Identifying lines of symmetry

  • Understanding patterns and sequences

• Position and Direction:

  • Using mathematical vocabulary to describe position

  • Understanding whole, half, quarter and three-quarter turns

Supporting Learning at Home

Recommended Activities

• Counting everyday objects

• Playing number games

• Practicing time-telling

• Using money in real situations

• Measuring while cooking

• Identifying shapes in the environment

Expected Outcomes

By the end of KS1, pupils should:

• Read and write numbers to at least 100

• Use place value and number facts to solve problems

• Solve problems with addition and subtraction

• Recall and use multiplication and division facts for 2, 5, and 10

• Recognize, find, name and write simple fractions

• Use standard units for measurement

• Identify and describe properties of 2D and 3D shapes

• Use mathematical language to describe position, direction and movement