How to build number sense to 120

Building number sense is a critical math skill.

Number Sense is a person’s ability to

• Manipulate numbers
• Use numbers in real-world settings
• Understand number patterns

To build number sense students need to understand some foundational skills.

First students need to understand patterns. This is where real life examples, come in. Teach simple patterns such as days of the week, months of the year, or use blocks and other manipulatives

Next help students discover number patterns. If students understand patterns then comprehending number patterns will be easier. Use color coding, skip counting and other visual tools.

Students should understand that digits repeat as we count. There are only 10 digits 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9. These digits repeat and with the help of zero make numbers.

Then students need to understand place value. As we count forward numbers get bigger and as we count backwards numbers get smaller. In addition, teaching place value requires understanding that zero is a place value. In addition, students need to understand crossing the decade -moving from 29 to 30, 39 to 40 etc. Read more about crossing the decade here.

Finally students need lots of practice with numbers

Provide opportunities for students to use different tools such as number lines, 100 charts, place value blocks, number cards, place value charts and anything else to help support and build students’ understanding.

In addition, other ways to help students practice is with number talks, games, task cards, hands-on activities and discussion.

Here are my top 5 ways to practice counting to 120:

1. Play matching game with numbers that cross the decade 29/30 39/40 49/50 etc.
2. Write numbers in a 120 chart with blank charts or with some numbers filled in
3. Practice finding numbers that come before and after a given number
4. Use big number cards to order numbers on the table or even on the floor
5. Cut 120 number chart into puzzles that students practice putting together

Need more activities? I’ve got a bundle of activities for numbers 1-120.

Grab this number sense resouce and you’ll get

• 3 sets of number cards 1-120
• 3 sets Task cards for practicing sequencing numbers
• Cross the decade activities
• Worksheets
• 120 Number charts
• Number sense games

This resource is easy to use and provides lots of opportunities to practice counting to 120.

Supporting you all the way! 💖