Telling Time

One of the hardest activities for a pre-school student is learning to tell time. This activity allows for students to learn to tell time on a standard clock by letting them use their arms and bodies. This type of kinestetic learning will allow the students to learn to tell time easier and quicker.

The student should be able to tell time using five and ten minutes by displaying the time using their arms. Students will demonstate 12 o'clock, 12:15, 12:30, and 12:45 or with 3, 6, or 9 instead of 12.

A standard clock or facsimile of one. A large on that students can manipulate would be best.

1. Use the clock to explain to students the increments of time. Tell them the each number represents five minutes.

2. Have the students give times, and as a class, move the clock to the appropriate time. If possible have students move the hands themselves.

3. After a few student given times, tell the students they can easily remember the times themselves. Use your arm to show them the 12,3,6,and 9 positions.

4. As a class go through the positions together, everyone using their arms to represent the clock.

5. As a drill, have the students one by one show different times.

Students should be assessed on whether or not they understand the objective of telling the basic times on a standard clock. Instead of grading with a pass/fail mentality. Work with the student until he/she can demonstate 12 o'clock, 12:15, 12:30, and 12:45 or with 3, 6, or 9.