Target/code: connect an empty collection and counted collections to numerals, including zero; AC9MFN01. Prepare: P151's three broad pockets, numeral cards and 0–20 track. Use a pretend paper-sign cupboard, not a real child's belongings.
- Notice · 3 min. Show the truly empty pocket without a numeral. Ask “How many pieces can you see?” Distinguish empty from a covered pocket whose count is unknown.
- Model · 4 min. Turn the empty pocket over, show no hidden card, then place
0. Count six large circles, moving one per number word, and match6. - Guide · 5 min. Offer the fourteen squares. Child chooses a count path; stop and restart only if one square is skipped or counted twice. Place numeral
14after the child has named/shown the quantity. - Independent route · 7 min. Offer Day 151 A/B/C through sign, puppet or book pockets. Require set, numeral and a zero reason, not a memorised numeral alone.
- Evidence check · 4 min. Move the fourteen squares to another grouping without changing amount. Ask whether zero now belongs to that pocket; child explains why not. Record exact action and any cue.
- Exit · 2 min. Child points to or says one thing that zero can label. If zero is treated as “not counted”, next time contrast empty versus concealed using different large pockets.