Illustrative Mathematics Kindergarten, Unit 1: Math in Our World
In this unit, your child begins noticing math in daily life: the people at a table, the steps to the door, or the stars in a picture book. Kindergartners practice saying the counting numbers in order, giving one number to each object, and telling how many. Through games and sharing, they get comfortable talking about math, ready for a closer look at the numbers 1 to 10 next.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 1?
- Saying the counting numbers in order, as far as they can, and joining in with longer counts during games and songs. Learn more about counting to 100 by ones: Counting to 100 by ones · Learn more about counting to 100 by tens
- Giving one number to each object they count and knowing the last number tells how many in all. Learn more: How counting tells you how many
- Counting groups of everyday things, such as people at a table or pictures on a page, whether lined up or scattered. 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
What comes next? 10, 20, 30, 40, __
- 60
- 50
- 41
How you can help
- Count the stars, animals, or people on each page of a picture book at bedtime, pointing to each one as your child counts.
- Count the steps from the door to the sidewalk together, and ask how many steps it took when you get there.
- Play hide-and-seek and let your child count aloud as high as they can before seeking, joining in when they get stuck.
Where kids can get stuck
- Skipping numbers past the ones they know well, such as counting 1, 2, 3, 5, 8.
- Pointing faster or slower than they say numbers, so some objects get two numbers and others none.
- Missing some pictures in a scattered group, because they do not keep track of which are done.
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
- count
- To say numbers in order, giving one number to each thing.
- number
- A word or symbol that tells how many, like five or 5.
- order
- The way things are lined up, like the counting numbers 1, 2, 3, 4.
- 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.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with everyday counting?
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.
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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 Illustrative Mathematics Kindergarten Unit 1 cover?
Illustrative Mathematics Kindergarten Unit 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.