number · Foundation · AC9MFN02
Seeing how many at a glance
Small groups of up to five can be known just by looking, without counting one by one. This is called subitising. Dice patterns and five-frames are always arranged the same way, so learn what each one looks like: four corners and one in the middle is five. When dots are messy, look for small groups you know, like a pair and a pair. Bigger groups can be seen as two parts: two and three make five. If some dots are hidden, see the ones that are showing and think how many more make the whole. You can always touch and count to check.
Sample questions
How many dots are on the dice?
- Four dots sit in the corners and 1 more is in the middle, so it is 4 and 1.
- There are 5 dots on the dice.
Answer: 5
How many dots are on the dice?
- Four dots sit in the corners and 1 more is in the middle, so it is 4 and 1.
- There are 5 dots on the dice.
Answer: 5
How many dots are on the dice?
- Two dots sit in opposite corners.
- There are 2 dots on the dice.
Answer: 2