Common Mistakes When Counting
Everyone makes mistakes! Let's learn what to watch out for.
Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Counting Too Fast
The Wrong Way
Saying "onetwothreefourfive" really fast without pointing!
This can make you skip objects or count the same one twice.
The Right Way
Slow down! Point to each apple as you count:
"One... two... three... four... five!"
Mistake 2: Forgetting to Point
The Wrong Way
Just looking at the stars and guessing "5"
The Right Way
Touch or point to each star as you say the number:
Point: "1" - Point: "2" - Point: "3" - Point: "4" - Point: "5" - Point: "6"
There are 6 stars!
Mistake 3: Counting an Object Twice
The Wrong Way
Counting "1, 2, 3" then going back and counting the first frog again: "4"
Answer: "4 frogs" - but that's wrong!
The Right Way
Count from left to right, one time only:
First frog: "1", Second frog: "2", Third frog: "3"
Answer: 3 frogs
Helpful Tip!
Move counted objects to a different pile, or cross them out with your finger as you count!
Mistake 4: Skipping Numbers
The Wrong Way
Counting: "1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7" - You skipped 4!
The Right Way
Remember the order: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Count carefully: "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7"
Tips to Count Correctly
Tip 1: Use Your Finger
Always point to each object as you count it.
Tip 2: Go Slow
There's no race! Take your time.
Tip 3: Count in Order
Go from left to right, or top to bottom.
Tip 4: Check Your Work
If you're not sure, count again!
Practice: Can You Avoid the Mistakes?
Problem 1: Count slowly and carefully!
How many butterflies?
Problem 2: Point to each one!
How many cats?
Problem 3: Don't skip any numbers!
How many cookies?
Problem 4: Count each object only once!
How many rainbows?
Remember!
- Don't rush - count slowly
- Point to each object
- Count once - don't count the same thing twice
- Don't skip - say every number in order
- Check your work - count again if you're not sure