CCSS.Math.Content.K.CC.A.3
The standard
Write numbers from 0 to 20. Represent a number of objects with a written numeral 0-20 (with 0 representing a count of no objects).
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · Counting and Cardinality
What this standard means
Students need to connect three things: a counted set, the spoken number, and the written numeral. They should write numerals 0 through 20 and use a numeral to show how many objects are in a group. They also need to understand that 0 means none, not “I forgot to count.”
Mastery looks like a child counting a set, stopping at the last object, and writing the matching numeral without copying. Common trouble spots are reversals, teen numbers, skipping objects while counting, counting the same object twice, and using 0 incorrectly for an empty space or unknown answer.
Ways to teach it
- Hands-on: Give students counting mats, counters, and numeral cards 0 to 20, then have them build each number and write it.
- Prompt: Show an empty plate and a plate with 8 cubes, then ask, “What numeral matches each plate, and how do you know?”
- Quick assessment: Place 14 buttons in a cup, have each child count them, then write the matching numeral on a sticky note.
- Real-world connection: During snack count how many napkins are on each table, then have students write the numeral on a table card.
Plan a lesson for CCSS.Math.Content.K.CC.A.3
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
Related standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.1.NBT.A.1
Count to 120, starting at any number less than 120. In this range, read and write numerals and represent a number of objects with a written numeral.
- CCSS.Math.Content.K.CC.B
Count to tell the number of objects.
- CCSS.Math.Content.K.CC.B.5
Count to answer "how many?" questions about as many as 20 things arranged in a line, a rectangular array, or a circle, or as many as 10 things in a scattered co...
- CCSS.Math.Content.1.NBT.B.2c
The numbers 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 refer to one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine tens (and 0 ones).