Objective

By the end of this lesson, Aj will be able to count to 10 and perform simple addition and subtraction using monster trucks as a fun and engaging tool.

Materials and Prep

• 10 toy monster trucks (or any similar items that can represent monster trucks)
• A flat surface to arrange the monster trucks
• Space for movement and play

Before starting the lesson, make sure to explain to Aj what monster trucks are and how we will use them to learn counting and math. You can also encourage Aj to think of their favorite monster truck names!

Activities

• Counting Monster Trucks:

  Start by having Aj line up the 10 monster trucks in a row. As you point to each truck, count together out loud from 1 to 10. This will help reinforce the numbers and counting skills.

• Monster Truck Addition:

  Place 3 monster trucks on one side and 2 on another side. Ask Aj, "How many monster trucks do we have if we put them together?" Count them together to find the total. Repeat with different numbers.

• Monster Truck Subtraction:

  Start with 5 monster trucks. Ask Aj to take away 2 trucks and count how many are left. Encourage Aj to say, "I had 5 monster trucks, I took away 2, now I have 3!"

• Monster Truck Race:

  Set up a mini race track with the monster trucks. As they race, count how many trucks are in the race. You can also ask Aj to add or subtract trucks based on who finishes first!

Talking Points

• "Let's count all our monster trucks together! How many do we have?"
• "If we have 3 trucks and we get 2 more, how many do we have now? Let's count!"
• "If I take away 1 truck from our group, how many are left? Let's find out!"
• "When we race our monster trucks, we can count how many are racing! Can you count them with me?"
• "Great job today! You counted, added, and subtracted with monster trucks! You are a math superstar!"