Number Sense

Number Sense can be thought of as a strong intuition about numbers and the ability to be flexible when using numbers. Mathematical fluency, when computing basic facts, is impacted by Number Sense.

Mathematical fluency is measured by looking at not only a child’s accuracy and efficiency (time), but their flexibility as well. Flexibility with numbers is developed as students think about and use strategies to solve problems. For example, if a student knows 6 + 6 = 12, they can use their knowledge of the "doubles" fact to help them when thinking of the solution to 6+7. Or if a student knows 6 x 5 = 30 and 6 x 2=12, they can use their knowledge to combine those facts to solve 6 x 7. Rather than memorizing the sums and differences to all facts, students who are flexible can find connections between facts they already know (such as doubles, making ten, ten plus a number) to help them determine the solution to other facts.

Just like in reading, we do not simply look at the speed in which a child reads, but also their ability to problem solve new words and their comprehension of the story. In mathematics, accuracy and efficiency are important, as well as a students' ability to be flexible with strategies.