The idea, step by step
Equal means the same amount
Groups are equal when each group has the same number of objects. Three counters in every group makes equal groups.
The objects do not need to be the same colour or spread out in the same way. Count how many are in each group.
Make and check groups
Choose how many objects belong in a group. Move that many into one group, then make another group the same size.
When you have finished, count each group. If one has more, change the arrangement before calling the groups equal.
A common trap
Judging equality by how much space a group covers.
Instead: A spread-out group can have the same number as a close group. Count the objects, not the space.
See the thinking
Make groups of three
Arrange nine counters into groups with three in each.
- Put three counters in the first group.
- Make another group of three and then a third.
- Count each group: all have three.
Two equal groups
Arrange ten counters into two equal groups.
- Put one counter in each group in turn.
- Continue until all ten are placed.
- Each group now has five.
Check your understanding
One group has four counters and another has four. Are they equal?
Show answer
Yes.
Both groups contain four counters.
Your turn
6 questions · Work at your own pace.
Read the questions online
- One group has three beads and another has five. Are the groups equal?
- Draw two equal groups with four counters in each.
- Arrange six counters into groups of two. How many groups?
- Arrange eight counters into two equal groups. How many in each?
- Two groups have five and three counters. Move one counter to make them equal. Describe the move.
- Show two different equal-group arrangements of twelve counters.
Read the worked solutions
- One group has three beads and another has five. Are the groups equal?
Three and five are different amounts.
No. - Draw two equal groups with four counters in each.
Check that both groups contain four.
Two groups, each with 4 counters. - Arrange six counters into groups of two. How many groups?
Make two, another two, then another two.
3 groups. - Arrange eight counters into two equal groups. How many in each?
Give one to each group repeatedly until all eight are used.
4 counters. - Two groups have five and three counters. Move one counter to make them equal. Describe the move.
Both groups then have four.
Move one from the group of five to the group of three. - Show two different equal-group arrangements of twelve counters.
Each arrangement uses twelve counters with equal groups. Accept other correct arrangements.
For example, 3 groups of 4 and 4 groups of 3.
Curriculum reference & lesson scope
Australian Curriculum v9 and SA Curriculum Mathematics
Practical Year 1 grouping and equal sharing with whole objects.
Official curriculum source ↗