Today, kindergartners learned the basics about coins. Armed with magnifying glasses and a handful of coins, students worked in small groups to unlock the mysteries of each piece. They examined the details and symbols on each coin, collaborating with their peers to try to determine the coin’s name and value.

After their initial discovery phase, each group completed a sorting activity. They placed their coins under large cutout versions of coins to categorize them. This visual and tactile exercise allowed students to reinforce their newfound knowledge and provided a platform for sharing what they noticed. After we discussed the names and values of each coin, the class then brainstormed various ways to make a dollar. I encouraged them all to count coins at home and see if they can use their knowledge of counting by 1’s, 5’s, and 10’s to create one dollar.