Pre-K · Counting & Cardinality
PK.CC.2: Write numerals 0–5
PK.CC.2 is a Pre-K math standard in Counting & Cardinality. Here’s what it really covers, and how you can help your students learn it.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
The Pre-K math learning standard
Represent a number of objects with a written numeral 0-5 (with 0 representing a count of no objects).
In plain words
Write numerals 0–5.
Sample questions from student practice
These questions from Bobby's Math Club are the kinds of questions your students will see. You can try answering them to see what a student might see.
Question 1 of 3
How many stars are there?
- 3
- 4
- 2
Where students can get stuck
- Writing some numerals backwards, especially 2 and 5, which is common at this age and not a sign of confusion about amounts.
- Leaving the space blank when there are no objects, because they do not yet see 0 as a number.
- Writing the wrong numeral for the group, such as 4 for three blocks, because symbol and count are not linked yet.
Effective teaching strategies
- Model each numeral on chart paper with a start dot and arrows, so students learn which way 2 and 5 face before they write them small.
- Place 3 large blocks on a tray and have students choose the matching numeral card from 0 to 5, then count the blocks again to check.
- Show an empty basket and ask how many it holds, then write 0 together so students see that zero is a number that means none.
Share it with families
Families can read Writing a number 0 to 5 to show how many for a plain-language look at this skill, with three questions to try together and ideas for helping at home.
Help every student practice counting at home
In Bobby's Math Club, students practice 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 for every family.
See how it works for teachers
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.