Reading and Writing Numbers
In the previous lesson, we learned how to count objects and use counting numbers in the correct order. Now we will learn how to read and write numbers.
Numbers can be written using symbols. These written symbols help us record how many objects there are and communicate quantities to others.
Learning Objectives
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
- Recognise numbers from 1 to 20.
- Read simple numbers correctly.
- Write numbers using their correct symbols.
- Connect a quantity with its written number.
- Identify a number when it is shown in a group of numbers.
- Write numbers in the correct order.
What Is a Number Symbol?
A number can be represented using a written symbol. These symbols are called numerals.
For example, the number one is written as:
The number two is written as:
The number five is written as:
These symbols allow us to write numbers instead of only saying them.
Reading Numbers
We can look at a written number and say its name.
Read it as one.
Read it as two.
Read it as three.
Read it as four.
Read it as five.
Numbers from 1 to 10
Let us learn the number symbols and their names from 1 to 10.
Connecting Numbers with Quantities
A written number can tell us how many objects are in a group.
There are 3 apples.
There are 5 stars.
Writing Numbers
We can write a number after counting a group of objects.
For example, if we count four balls, we can write the number 4.
Four balls are represented by the number 4.
Writing Numbers in Order
Numbers can also be written in their counting order.
The next numbers are:
Writing numbers in order helps us remember their sequence.
Reading and Writing Numbers from 11 to 20
After 10, we continue with the numbers 11 to 20.
Example
Count the objects and write the number.
Count the oranges:
The number is:
So, there are 6 oranges.
Finding a Number
Sometimes a number is hidden among other numbers. We need to recognise the correct number.
2 7 4 9 1
The number we are looking for is 4.
Writing the Missing Number
We can use the counting sequence to find a missing number.
The missing number is 3.
Common Mistakes
Writing the Wrong Number
Make sure the written symbol matches the number you want to represent.
Writing Numbers in the Wrong Order
When writing counting numbers, remember to follow their correct sequence.
Correct: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Confusing Similar Number Symbols
Some number symbols may look similar when you are learning them. Practise writing each number carefully and check it after writing.
Not Connecting the Number with the Quantity
Remember that a written number represents a quantity. Always think about how many objects the number represents.
Practice
2, 5, 8, 10
🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎
1, 2, ___, 4, 5
3 5 7 2 9
Try It Yourself
Choose some objects around you and count them. Then write the number that represents the total quantity.
For example:
There are 5 pencils.
Try the same activity with different objects around you.
Quick Revision
- Numbers can be written using number symbols.
- We can read a written number and say its name.
- We can write a number to represent a quantity.
- Numbers can be written in counting order.
- A written number should match the quantity it represents.
- We can use counting to find missing numbers.
What Comes Next?
Now that you can read and write numbers, the next lesson will give you more practice connecting numbers with real objects.