Number sense routines are short, structured activities designed to help students develop an intuitive understanding of numbers and their relationships1. Here are some common number sense routines used in elementary education:
- Count in Circle: This is a fun routine where students count in a circle2.
- Choral Counting: In this routine, the whole class counts aloud a number sequence together2.
- Ten Frames: This routine helps students visualize numbers and understand their relationships2.
- Number of the Day: This routine involves focusing on a specific number for the day and exploring its properties2.
- Rekenrek aka Arithmetic Rack: This tool helps students develop a sense of five and ten, and the parts that combine to make these benchmark numbers2.
- Counting Anything: This routine involves counting objects, people, sounds, etc., to develop a sense of quantity2.
- Dice Throw: This routine involves throwing dice and counting the number of dots2.
- Number Line Stops: This routine involves using a number line to understand the position and relationships of numbers2.
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Number Bounce Routine: This is a quick counting routine in which students and teachers count forward and backward in a given sequence1. For example, you might start counting forward by ones like: 213, 214, 215, 216, then tap a student on the shoulder. The student says 217, and then you continue counting1.
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Base Ten Toss Routine: This routine includes counting using place value language1. It is intended to build base ten language and ultimately foster place value understandings1.
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Close, Far, or In-Between Number Sense Routine: This routine helps students develop an intuitive understanding of numbers and their relationships2. It can be adapted for learners of all ages, from early childhood to adulthood2.
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Which One Doesn’t Belong?: Present a set of numbers or shapes and ask learners to identify which one doesn’t belong and explain their reasoning2.
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Estimation Jar: Fill a jar with objects (e.g., marbles, beans) and ask learners to estimate how many are in the jar. Then, count to check their estimates2.
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Number Talks: Engage in open-ended discussions about mathematical problems, encouraging learners to share their strategies and solutions2.
These routines are flexible and can be adapted to suit the needs and abilities of learners at different levels1. They are meant to be quick activities that can be used at any time during the school day31.