The idea, step by step
Count the value
A 1-dollar coin is worth 1 dollar. A 2-dollar coin is worth 2 dollars. Two 1-dollar coins have the same value as one 2-dollar coin. Count the values shown on the coins, not just how many coins there are. These drawings show values, not actual coin sizes.
Notes can join the collection
Australian dollar notes include 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollars. Start with the note or coin worth the most, then count on. A 5-dollar note and two 2-dollar coins make 5 + 2 + 2 = 9 dollars.
A common trap
Thinking that three coins must be worth 3 dollars.
Instead: Coin values can differ. Three 2-dollar coins are worth 6 dollars.
See the thinking
Count mixed coins
A purse has one 2-dollar coin and two 1-dollar coins. How much is in it?
- Start with the 2-dollar coin.
- Add 1 and then 1: 2 + 1 + 1 = 4.
Make the same amount
Show two ways to make 6 dollars using only 1-dollar and 2-dollar coins.
- Three 2-dollar coins make 2 + 2 + 2 = 6.
- Two 2-dollar coins and two 1-dollar coins make 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 6.
Check your understanding
What is the value of a 10-dollar note and a 2-dollar coin?
Show answer
12 dollars.
10 + 2 = 12.
Your turn
6 questions · Work at your own pace.
Read the questions online
- How much are two 1-dollar coins worth?
- How much are four 2-dollar coins worth?
- Count a 5-dollar note, a 2-dollar coin and a 1-dollar coin.
- Count two 10-dollar notes and one 5-dollar note.
- Make 5 dollars using only 1-dollar and 2-dollar coins. Give one way.
- Ava has three 1-dollar coins. Ben has two 2-dollar coins. Who has more money, and by how much?
Read the worked solutions
- How much are two 1-dollar coins worth?
1 + 1 = 2.
2 dollars. - How much are four 2-dollar coins worth?
Count 2, 4, 6, 8.
8 dollars. - Count a 5-dollar note, a 2-dollar coin and a 1-dollar coin.
5 + 2 + 1 = 8.
8 dollars. - Count two 10-dollar notes and one 5-dollar note.
10 + 10 + 5 = 25.
25 dollars. - Make 5 dollars using only 1-dollar and 2-dollar coins. Give one way.
2 + 2 + 1 = 5; other valid combinations are accepted.
For example, two 2-dollar coins and one 1-dollar coin. - Ava has three 1-dollar coins. Ben has two 2-dollar coins. Who has more money, and by how much?
Ava has 3 dollars; Ben has 4 dollars; 4 − 3 = 1.
Ben has 1 dollar more.
Curriculum reference & lesson scope
Australian Curriculum v9 and SA Curriculum Mathematics
Comparing prices; $1/$2 coins and notes; purchases; limited money and saving; needs/wants; consumer choices.
Official curriculum source ↗