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D.3 Count blocks 0-50

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Counting Blocks from 0 to 50

Counting with blocks helps young learners see quantities clearly and develop number sense. Students should be able to touch and count each block one by one, saying the numbers in order from 0 to 50.

Counting Activities:
  • Place 8 blocks on the table and count them together aloud.
  • Arrange 20 blocks in 4 rows of 5 and count carefully across each row.
  • Draw 12 blocks on a board and ask, “How many blocks are here?”
Teaching Tip

Have students point to or tap each block as they count to avoid skipping or double-counting.

Recognizing Numbers with Block Sets

Recognizing numbers means connecting the written numeral to a specific number of blocks. Children learn that the numeral represents how many blocks are in a set.

Number Recognition Practice:
  • Show a set of 14 blocks and ask students to say the number.
  • Hold up the numeral 9 and ask students to make a set of 9 blocks.
  • Match number cards 0–50 to groups of blocks for instant recognition.
Helpful Strategy

Display number cards next to block sets to reinforce the link between numerals and quantities.

Writing Numbers Using Block Models

Writing numbers helps children remember numerals and understand that written numbers represent counted blocks. Connecting writing with block models builds meaning.

Writing Practice:
  • Provide tracing worksheets with numbers and matching block sets.
  • Ask students to draw 11 blocks and write the numeral 11 below them.
  • Encourage students to write numbers beside the block sets they count in their notebooks.
Instructional Focus

Model correct numeral formation. Remind students to start at the top when writing numbers.

Comparing Sets of Blocks

Comparing sets teaches children to identify which set has more, fewer, or the same number of blocks. This skill strengthens their understanding of quantity relationships.

Comparison Activities:
  • Show 7 red blocks and 12 blue blocks → “Which set has more?”
  • Arrange two sets of 15 blocks each → “Are the sets equal?”
  • Ask: “Which is fewer, 6 yellow blocks or 9 green blocks?”
Visual Strategy

Line up blocks side by side or use a number line to make comparisons clear.

Building Counting Fluency

Counting fluency means counting forward and backward confidently and accurately. Working with blocks supports visual and verbal practice from 0 to 50.

Fluency Practice:
  • Count forward as you add one block at a time from 0 to 50.
  • Count backward as you remove blocks one by one from 10 to 0.
  • Challenge: Start at 5 and count up to 15 using blocks.
Instructional Reminder

Short, repeated counting games with blocks build accuracy and confidence. Encourage students to recount if unsure.

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