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Reception Maths Autumn Block 6

Reception maths numbers 4 and 5 – Autumn Block 6

Reception Maths Autumn Block 6 focuses on the numbers 4 and 5, helping pupils build strong foundations in subitising, representation, comparison and number composition. Aligned with the EYFS framework and White Rose Maths progression, pupils explore numbers through practical activities, visual representations and mathematical talk.

Across the block, pupils learn to recognise, subitise and represent 4 and 5 before exploring one more, one less and the composition of each number. These experiences help pupils make connections between quantities and develop a deeper understanding of how numbers can be made and changed.

View small steps and Early Learning Goals

Week 10 small steps

  • Find 4 and 5
  • Subitise 4 and 5
  • Represent 4 and 5

Week 11 small steps

  • 1 more
  • 1 less
  • Composition of 4 and 5

Early Learning Goals

  • Subitise quantities up to 5
  • Verbally count beyond 20, recognising patterns within the counting system
  • Explore and represent patterns within numbers up to 10
  • Develop a deep understanding of numbers to 10, including number composition

Reception Autumn maths progression

Autumn Block 6 forms part of the Maths Masters Reception Autumn sequence. Explore the full term to see how learning about 4 and 5 builds on earlier number work and supports the wider Reception maths progression.

Explore Reception Autumn maths

View our free Reception maths yearly overview or explore our maths subject leader resources.

Building secure understanding of numbers 4 and 5 in Reception

Exploring numbers 4 and 5 in Reception helps pupils strengthen their understanding of quantity, representation and number relationships. Pupils encounter 4 and 5 in different forms and begin linking spoken number names, numerals and visual representations to the quantities they represent.

Subitising and representing 4 and 5

Subitising in Reception helps pupils recognise quantities without counting each object individually. Exploring 4 and 5 through fingers, dot patterns, practical resources and visual representations helps pupils develop flexible number sense and recognise the same quantity in different arrangements.

One more, one less and composition

Exploring one more and one less in EYFS helps pupils understand how quantities change, while composition activities show how 4 and 5 can be made from smaller parts. These ideas provide strong foundations for later calculation and deeper understanding of number.

See how this block fits within the wider term sequence and explore Reception Autumn maths planning.