Math Expressions Kindergarten, Unit 1: Understand Numbers 1-5
In this unit, your child builds a deep sense of the numbers 1 to 5. They count small groups, write each numeral, and learn that the last number counted tells how many. Knowing these small numbers well makes the next step easier, when the numbers 6 to 10 are seen as a group of 5 and some more.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 1?
- Writing the numerals 1 to 5 and using them to show how many objects are in a small group. Learn more: Writing numbers from 0 to 20
- Counting each object once, and knowing the last number said answers the question how many. Learn more: How counting tells you how many
- Counting up to 5 objects in a line or scattered, and counting out an amount such as 3 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 count out 3 spoons, then 5 napkins, as you set the table. Check together that they stop at the right number.
- Write a numeral from 1 to 5 on a piece of paper and have your child jump, clap, or stomp that many times.
- Scatter up to 5 stuffed animals across the couch. Have your child count them, touching each one, then tell you how many in all.
Where kids can get stuck
- Counting out 5 blocks when asked for 3, because they keep going instead of stopping.
- Skipping a toy or counting one twice when the toys are scattered instead of in a line.
- Repeating the whole count when asked how many, instead of saying the last number.
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, one number for each thing.
- numeral
- The written symbol for a number, like 7.
- how many
- A question that asks us to count and tell the total.
- count out
- To count until you have the exact number someone asked for.
- in all
- The total when groups are put together.
- group
- A set of things that belong together.
Want to help your child master numbers 1 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 Math Expressions Kindergarten Unit 1 cover?
Math Expressions 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.