Number words can be tricky! They are filled with irregular spellings and are both a math and a literacy skill. Where do they fit in and when should you teach them? As soon as you start teaching numbers and number sense in your math lessons they are hard to avoid! Here are some ways to integrate teaching number words into your math block right now.
Introduce Number Words with the Numerals
As soon as you teach the numerals introduce the number words too. When introducing each number I used these cards (numeral, set of objects, ten frame and number word). They are nice and big to use in your pocket chart or display in the classroom. They can also be added to a math center where students can trace both the numeral and number word. A great way to start working on number sense.
This resource also has matching worksheets so that students can practice independently. It is so easy to introduce each number (& number word) with the whole class and then have a student activity ready to go. The cards are a great scaffold for students that need to refer to them.
Math Books
Read and make counting books available to your students. I kept our math books right in with our math stuff (instead of the classroom library) and they were always a favourite math fast finishers choice.
Here is a fun activity for using those math books to introduce number words.
Gather your counting books. Make sure they spell out the number words (some just use numeralsโฆ so double check). Have students find the number words on each page and spell them out with magnetic letters. You can add in some number word mats too!
Add Number Word Activities to your Math Centers
Don’t forget to add number word activities into your math center rotations. Activities like these number word playdough or tracing mats are a great way for students to get familiar with and practice number words and counting at the same time!
Looking for some more number word activities to add to your math block? I created a resource filled with number word worksheets, activities and games. Perfect for reviewing or teaching number words to 20 in kindergarten or first grade. You can find Number Words to 20 in my TPT store.
