Sense of Numbers

Everyone is able to feel approximate quantities and to make simple calculations of these quantities. It doesn’t matter what culture or age you’re from, whether you know the names of the numbers or not. This is what we refer to as the sense of numbers.

Our sense of numbers is something we all intuitively understand, even if we don’t have an exact grasp on the numbers themselves. Some pupils may find counting challenging, especially when it involves exact numbers. They need to understand that 5 is different from 6 or 33 is different from 32. They understand intuitively that they are equal, so they have to embark on a learning journey to grasp that there are different numbers.

Even at a young age, children can distinguish and compare two groups and know which one is bigger if the two groups are separated enough.

Some studies have shown that children with a better sense of numbers are often those with a better understanding of maths. It could be because they can see the differences between numbers that are closer.

2 activities are available below:

  • counting with small numbers and write with the correct symbol which group is bigger.
  • sense of numbers: without having to count – sense of which group is bigger.

Use the ‘Check’ button to verify your answers.

Download the activity at the bottom of the page.


Dehaene, S., Carriguel Olivier, Mantoux Aude, Carriguel Olivier, & Mantoux Aude. (2014). C3RV34U. Cité des sciences et de l’industrie Éditions de La Martinière. p107-120

Gilmore CK, McCarthy SE, Spelke ES. (2007). Symbolic Arithmetic knowledge without instruction. Nature, 447.7144 p589-591

Izard V, Sann C, Spelke ES, Streri A. (2009) Newborn infants perceive abstract numbers. PNAS, 106.25 p10382-10385

Counting

Intuitive Sense of Numbers

To Print

Counting

Intuitive Sense of Numbers

BEHIND

What’s the Maths behind this activity?

What’s behind? Maths tips

Participants develop numeracy skills. Maths concepts involved: counting, sense of numbers, approximative calculus, quantity, mathematical symbols.