Before we count numbers, we learn to compare, sort, and arrange things around us. These are called pre-number concepts.
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Key Concepts
One-to-one matching: We pair one object with another to check if two groups have the same number of things — even without counting.
More and Less: When one group has extra objects left over after matching, that group has more. The other group has less.
Before, After, Between: These words tell us the position of something in a line or order.
First, Last, Middle: These words describe where something is in a group — like who is first in a race.
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There are 3 apples and 3 plates. We put one apple on each plate. No apple is left over. So the two groups are equal (same).
4 birds are sitting on a wire. 2 birds fly away. Now 2 birds are left. The group that flew away has more birds than what is left.
A cat is between a dog and a rabbit. The dog is on the left and the rabbit is on the right. The cat is in the middle.
Children stand in a line: Anu, Binu, Chinu. Anu is first, Binu is in the middle, and Chinu is last.
Match 5 cups with 3 spoons. Two cups have no spoon. So cups are more and spoons are less.
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Common mistakes
- Do not count objects when matching; just pair them one-to-one.
- "Before" means the one that comes earlier in order; "after" means the one that comes later.
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Summary
Pre-number concepts help us compare groups, find positions, and understand order — all without counting!