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DD.1 Tally marks - up to 20

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Understanding Tally Marks

Tally marks are a quick way to show numbers using lines. Every line represents one count. When we reach five, we draw four vertical lines and then a diagonal line across them.

Examples:
  • | = 1
  • || = 2
  • ||| = 3
  • |||| = 4
  • ||||̸ = 5
Helpful Hint

Count each line one by one. Remember, a group of five is easier to spot quickly.

Counting Groups of Five

When numbers get bigger, we use groups of five to make counting faster. Each group of tally marks equals five, and then we add the extra marks if needed.

Examples:
  • ||||̸ || = 7 (one group of 5 + 2 more)
  • ||||̸ |||| = 9 (one group of 5 + 4 more)
  • ||||̸ ||||̸ = 10 (two groups of 5)
Helpful Hint

Say “five” for each group, then add the leftover marks.

Reading Bigger Numbers with Tally Marks

Tally marks can show numbers all the way up to 20 and beyond. Each group of five helps us count quickly without needing to count each line one by one.

Examples:
  • ||||̸ ||||̸ || = 12 (two groups of 5 + 2 more)
  • ||||̸ ||||̸ ||||̸ = 15 (three groups of 5)
  • ||||̸ ||||̸ ||||̸ ||||̸ = 20 (four groups of 5)
Helpful Hint

Group marks in fives to avoid mistakes. Count “5, 10, 15...” then add the rest.

Using Tally Marks in Real Life

Tally marks are used for keeping score, counting items, and recording quick notes. They help us organize numbers in an easy-to-read way.

Examples:
  • Counting students in class attendance.
  • Recording points in a game.
  • Tracking how many times something happens.
Helpful Hint

Whenever you need to count quickly, use tally marks instead of writing the numbers every time.