Number Sense

In kindergarten, we all know it is important to count, identify numbers, and write numbers, but what we sometimes forget is that it is even more important to have number sense.  Number sense is defined as an intuitive understanding of numbers, or a student's fluidity and flexibility with numbers.  This understanding of the relationship between numbers is more important than the measureable skills.  If students understand how numbers are related, they will have a better understanding of how to problem solve.  Students do not need to memorize one correct way to solve a problem; they need to understand the concept behind the math they are asked to complete. 

 

One way we have worked to develop this number sense is through subitizing.  This is the ability to quickly identify the number of items in a small set without counting.  We did this in many different ways, with fingers, five frames, and groups of dots or pictures.

 



Today, we worked to continue our development of number sense by creating our own number line.  We learned that numbers have an important order that relates to the value of the number.  When creating our number lines, we realized that the space between the numbers needs to be the same or equal.  In order to create this equal space between each number students decided to use their footprint to create the space between the numbers.  We are excited to be able to go back and add to our number lines as we learn more throughout the week and year!