Record counts in a table
Count grouped objects once, record them in a table and check against the objects.
Start with the activity ↓Can a record preserve the counts after objects are put away?
Count each shape and enter its count on the matching row. The row label says what was counted; the number says how many.
You grouped toys by shape but cannot leave them there forever. Record how many circles and triangles there were. Putting each label beside its count makes a table.
Mark or move each counted object so it is counted once. Put the circle count on the circle row. A correct number on the wrong row tells a different story.
If there are none of a shape, enter zero. A blank may mean not yet recorded; zero explicitly means none. Check that the row counts add to the number of actual objects.
A correct total does not guarantee correct rows. Swapping the circle and triangle counts can preserve the total. After checking the total, check every row against its group.
Listen one paragraph at a time
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Now check it yourself
Tap objects as you count them and fill each table row. The check button tells you which rows to recount.
Tap counted objects to mark them, then enter the table counts yourself.
| Shape | Count |
|---|---|
Each object is counted once in one group. The numbers represent counts, not weights or lengths.
Try it away from the screen
Make a paper table of labels and counts. Ask a friend to reconstruct the collection using only the table.
Can you explain another example?
Check your idea 1
Check your idea 2
Can you explain it in a new setting?
Explain why both the total and each row count must be checked.
Speak, point or draw on paper. Check whether your own explanation includes these ideas.
Continue reading, or pause here
What becomes easier to compare when table counts become pictures? Next, use bars.