Counting in numbers

Counting small collections

Touch each object once; the last number tells the size of the whole group.

Say the counting words in order: one, two, three, four, five. Move one object as you say each word so that nothing is counted twice. After counting, the last word names how many objects there are altogether. You do not need to start counting again to answer 'how many?'. Spread the same objects out and count them again: the amount stays the same. An empty group contains zero objects. Match a small collection to its written numeral, such as 3. When you add one object, the next counting word tells the new amount. Work with real objects and an adult who can read the question aloud.

Let's work it out

Touch each printed o once; each o stands for one object. Example: Count the shells; each o stands for one: o. How many? 1

Try it

Put 2 buttons in a row. Add one more. How many now?