Planned learning intentions
* To show an interest in numbers and in counting
* To show an interest in illustrations and print in books and print in the environment
Resources
Copy of the book Handa's surprise (Eileen Browne, Walker Books, 4.99), white paper, large cardboard box lids, different coloured paint, PVA glue, scissors, black wool, two old CDs, crepe paper, string, attractive fabric, brightly-coloured paper in contrasting colours
Step by step
* Choose a corner for the display and partially enclose it by forming a canopy from coloured paper strips suspended over a length of string.
* Invite the children to paint large pictures of fruits and birds. Cut out the pictures and suspend them in front of the canopy among strips of green crepe paper.
* Paint a big sign, 'Handa's Market', and fasten to the wall beneath the canopy.
* Create market stall fruit trays by lining the inside of some box lids with coloured paper. Invite the children to paint different fruits to glue on to the trays. Ask older children to write labels depicting the contents of each tray. Fasten the trays below the market sign.
* Paint a large outline of Handa and drape colourful fabric over the cardboard cut-out. Create hair from black wool and earrings from CDs. Stand the finished model in the centre of the display.
Activities
* Explore the display together and ask the children to read the signs and labels.
* Invite the children to name the different fruits in the trays and to count them. Which tray has the most items? Which has the least? Write appropriate number labels to attach to each tray.
Extension activities
* Arrange baskets of plastic fruit under the display to encourage the children to develop market stall role-play. Supply plastic coins and create a price list together.
* Leave a copy of the book beside the display for the children to enjoy.
Vicky Taylor is the pre-school leader at St Osmund's Pre-school in Gainford, County Durham. She spoke to Jean Evans.