Go Math! Kindergarten, Chapter 1: Represent Count and Write Numbers 0 to 5
In this unit, your child begins with the smallest numbers, 0 to 5. Kindergartners show each number with fingers, counters, or drawings, count small groups carefully, and learn to write the numerals 0 to 5, including 0 for an empty group. These first numbers matter, because the next unit uses them straight away to compare groups and see which has more or fewer.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Chapter 1?
- Writing the numerals 0 to 5 and using them to record a count, with 0 for a group that has nothing. Learn more: Writing numbers from 0 to 20
- Saying one number word for each object up to 5, and knowing the last word tells how many. Learn more: How counting tells you how many
- Showing numbers up to 5 with fingers, objects, and drawings, and counting out that many things when asked. Learn more: Counting groups of up to 20 things
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
How many apples do you see?
- 9
- 7
- 8
How you can help
- Ask your child to show a number from 0 to 5 on their fingers, then find that many spoons or cups to match it.
- Draw dots on paper plates, from 0 to 5, and let your child write the number under each plate, including the empty one.
- Count the people, chairs, and plates at mealtime, up to 5 of each, and ask your child whether there are enough plates for everyone.
Where kids can get stuck
- Saying number words faster than they point, so a group of 3 cups is counted as 4.
- Leaving the space blank for an empty plate instead of writing 0, not yet seeing 0 as a number.
- Holding up 4 fingers correctly but counting them again from 1 instead of just knowing it is 4.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- numeral
- The written symbol for a number, like 7.
- zero
- The number for none at all, written 0.
- count
- To say numbers in order, giving one number to each thing.
- how many
- The question a count answers; the last number you say tells it.
- one-to-one counting
- Giving each object exactly one number word as you count.
- count out
- To count just the number of things someone asks for, then stop.
Want to help your child master numbers 0 to 5?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
Join the club
Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does Go Math! Kindergarten Chapter 1 cover?
Go Math! Kindergarten Chapter 1 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.