Reception Maths Autumn Block 4

Autumn Block 4: 1, 2, 3

Support early number sense with this EYFS Autumn Block 4 lesson pack, focused on recognising, representing and composing numbers 1, 2 and 3. Aligned with the White Rose EYFS maths progression, this block includes lesson plans, teaching slides, practical tasks, and early recording opportunities to help children build a secure understanding of number through play and guided activities, including EYFS number recognition worksheets.

Pupils explore what numbers 1, 2 and 3 look like in real-life contexts, subitise small quantities, and practise using the language of ‘more’, ‘less’ and ‘the same’ as part of daily maths routines. This block lays the groundwork for deeper number composition later in the term.

Download our free Reception maths yearly overview Explore maths subject leader resources

View White Rose small steps and Early Learning Goals

Week 7 Small Steps:

  • Identify 1, 2, 3
  • Subitise 1, 2, 3
  • Represent 1, 2, 3

Week 8 Small Steps:

  • 1 more
  • 1 less
  • Composition of 1, 2, 3

Early Learning Goals:

  • Subitise (recognise quantities without counting) up to 5
  • Have a deep understanding of numbers to 10, including the composition of each number

Reception Maths – Autumn Block 4: 1, 2, 3

Autumn Block 4 in our EYFS maths scheme focuses on developing a strong understanding of the numbers 1, 2 and 3. Through EYFS number recognition activities, subitising practice and early addition and subtraction, this block gives Reception pupils a confident start to their number journey. It includes full Reception maths planning aligned with the White Rose EYFS progression, and supports the EYFS Early Learning Goals for Number.

In Week 7, pupils identify and represent the numbers 1, 2 and 3 using familiar objects, dot patterns and five frames. EYFS subitising activities encourage children to recognise small quantities without counting, using visuals such as dice, fingers and domino-style layouts. These activities build confidence in linking numerals to quantities, forming a foundation for future calculation.

Week 8 focuses on number composition, exploring how 1, 2 and 3 can be broken into parts. Pupils use manipulatives, number tracks and practical tools to investigate ‘one more’ and ‘one less’, as well as how numbers are built from smaller numbers. The pack includes optional EYFS number worksheets and recording tasks to support guided group work or evidence gathering.

Each lesson pack contains a step-by-step lesson plan, animated presentation, hands-on activities and links to continuous provision. Whether you’re looking for subitising resources for Reception, EYFS composition of number worksheets or 1 more 1 less activities EYFS, this block is designed to meet your classroom needs.

Continue your journey through our EYFS maths scheme of work, including Autumn Block 3: Measure and Patterns and Autumn Block 5: Circles and Triangles.