Grade 1 Mathematics Number concept – Whole numbers Notes
Mathematics — Number Concept
Subtopic: Whole Numbers (for age 6)
Whole numbers are the numbers we use for counting things. They start from 0 and go on: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 ...
1. What is zero?
Zero means none. If there are no mangoes on a tree, we write 0.
🥭🥭🥭
3 mangoes → 3
🥭
1 mango → 1
—
no mangoes → 0
2. Count and see (use fingers or stones)
Look at the pictures, count and write the whole number.
Count =
🦋
🦋
🦋
🦋
🦋
🦋
Count =
(no fish)
Count =
3. Number line (0 to 10)
A number line helps us see whole numbers in order.
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Tip: Move right to add, move left to take away.
4. Compare whole numbers
Which number is greater? Use > (greater), < (less) or = (equal).
4 > 2
5 < 8
3 = 3
5. Try these (ask a teacher or parent to check)
- Count the pencils on your desk. Write the whole number:
- How many goats in the picture? (draw or count) Write the number:
- Circle the greater number: 6 or 9? (circle 9)
- Write numbers from 0 to 5 on paper. Say them aloud.
Well done! Whole numbers help us count, compare and play with numbers every day.
Note: In Kenya, children learn whole numbers in Class 1 and Class 2. Practice by counting fruits, stones, or toys at home or in school.