The Power of Story
Story is an extremely powerful tool for engaging children in deep mathematical learning and for developing their understanding.
Research into the use of storytelling in learning is extensive. Zazkis & Liljedahl (2009) state that, ‘Story can make mathematics more enjoyable, memorable, engaging and understandable.’ Research by Kieran Egan (1986) demonstrates that, ‘Children readily understand abstract concepts when they are organised in story form’.
The first Number Fun songs were written in 1999 and featured characters
like Farmer Pete, Chip the Chopper, Firefighter Esme, Number Bond
(006/004) and the amazing Doubling Machine.
Based on a deep understanding of how children learn mathematics, Number Fun combines the powerful tools of song, visualisation, animation and humour – but at the heart of Number Fun is the use of story. Number Fun features an ensemble cast of fun-filled characters that live together on Number Fun Island.
This section of the website is designed to help you get to know the cast and to develop your use of these characters, their stories and the wonderful Number Fun graphics to support your children’s learning.
‘Children readily
understand abstract
concepts when organised
in story form’
Kieran Egan, Teaching as Story Telling
The Wonderful World of Number Fun
Explore all the Number Fun Characters in one poster!
(Accompanied by a poster listing everyone’s names!)
Mental Calculation Characters
These 10 characters are the Masters of Mental Calculation.
Each character has their own story which helps children
grasp a different mental strategy across all four operations.
Check out the MAP Mental Strategies Booklet below.
MAP stands for Mental Arithmetic Practice.
Check out MAP on EuHu for the complete
package, including detailed planning.
Story Downloads
Four sets of 32 Trump Cards for you to
explore, download and enjoy:
Set A: Characters
Set B: Creatures
Set C: Objects
Set D: Numbers and Shapes
Two sets of 32 Introduction Posters that
help you learn more about the characters and
creatures that can be found in the Number
Fun videos.
Set A: Characters
Set B: Creatures
Four sets of graphics for you to print out and
use on your Mathematics Working Wall:
Set A: Characters
Set B: Creatures
Set C: Objects
Set D: Numbers and Shapes
The Number Fun Farm Adventures
The Number Fun Farm Adventures are a series of 8 fun-filled mathematical adventures for 4-7 year old children. Each audio book features characters, like Farmer Pete and Alice, and some of the most popular Number Fun songs. Each story has a specific mathematical theme and there is a strong story arc across the entire series.
‘Christmas Number 1’ Nativity
Christmas Number 1 is Dave’s popular nativity production for Early Years and Key Stage 1. Two children travel back in time, on a powerful Time Rocket, to discover the magic of the first Christmas. This seasonal mathematical adventure incorporates Music, Drama, R.E. and BookArt. Feedback includes, ‘Brilliant’ and ‘Best Ever!’
Assembly Materials
Dave has delivered maths-linked acts of Collective Worship for many years. He put all his best ideas into an assembly resources pack entitled ‘Millions and Billions’. These resources include songs, gameshows and Bible Stories, along with detailed advice on how to use these resources effectively.
The Story of Number Fun
(in 100 Seconds!)
Dave Godfrey is the creator of Number Fun! He is a primary teacher, author, songwriter and mathematics consultant from York, England. He’s married to Menna, with whom he has 3 children and 3 grandchildren. Here is Dave’s whirlwind tour of the history of Number Fun in 100 seconds!