Numeracy at Education Always

Numeracy is the foundation of all Mathematics learning. In Ghana’s lower primary curriculum (Basic 1 to Basic 3), Numeracy is taught as a core subject that builds children’s number sense, counting skills, and early mathematical reasoning. A child who is numerate can make sense of numbers, use them confidently in everyday situations, and build on that foundation throughout their schooling. At Education Always, our Numeracy resources are designed for young learners, parents, and primary school teachers.

Numeracy Skills at the Lower Primary Level

Number Sense and Counting

  • Counting forwards and backwards from 1 to 100 and beyond
  • Recognizing and writing numerals from 1 to 1,000
  • Comparing numbers: greater than, less than, and equal to
  • Ordering numbers on a number line
  • Ordinal numbers: first, second, third… tenth and beyond
  • Skip counting: counting in 2s, 5s, and 10s
  • Even and odd numbers

Addition and Subtraction

  • Simple addition and subtraction using objects and pictures
  • Addition facts to 20 (number bonds)
  • Addition and subtraction of two-digit and three-digit numbers with and without carrying/borrowing
  • Word problems: real-life addition and subtraction using Ghanaian contexts (e.g. buying items at the market)

Multiplication and Division

  • Concept of multiplication as repeated addition
  • Multiplication tables from 1 to 12
  • Simple division as sharing equally
  • Relationship between multiplication and division

Fractions (Introduction)

  • Halves and quarters: sharing objects into equal parts
  • Simple fractions: ½, ¼, ⅓ using everyday objects

Measurement

  • Length: using non-standard units (hand spans, steps) and standard units (cm, m)
  • Weight/mass: lighter and heavier; using kg and g
  • Capacity: full, half full, empty; using litres and millilitres
  • Time: reading the clock (hours and half hours), days, weeks, and months
  • Money: Ghanaian coins and notes, simple buying and selling activities

Shapes and Space

  • 2D shapes: circle, square, rectangle, and triangle
  • 3D shapes: cube, cuboid, cylinder, cone, and sphere
  • Patterns: recognizing, describing, and creating simple patterns
  • Symmetry: identifying lines of symmetry in simple shapes

For Parents and Teachers

Young children learn Mathematics best through play, real objects, and practical activities. Use everyday items at home, such as beans, stones, or bottle tops, to help children count, sort, and add. Make mathematics part of cooking, shopping, and daily routines. The more a child sees numbers in real life, the more natural Mathematics becomes.

Browse our Numeracy resources to support young learners in building a confident and strong mathematical foundation.