Counting is the method of naming "whole" numbers, in order, from a smaller number to a larger one. It is an essential part of math to be able to know the number names and understand what they mean, similar to reciting the letters of the alphabet.

Numbers have four ways of being represented. For example the number 3 can be recognised as

• a) 3
• b) three
• c) III
• d) speaking the word "three"

Knowing how to read and understand what numbers mean helps with telling time, counting money, reading street signs or even helping set the table.
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