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addition

Addition as counting on

Start from one number and count forward to add efficiently.

Quick answer

Addition as counting on means starting from one number and counting forward to find the total. Instead of counting all the objects, you start with one number and count on the second number to get your answer.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to add two numbers by starting with the bigger number and counting on the smaller number to find the total. Success signs:
  • You can start with any number and count on to add
  • You can use your fingers or objects to help you count on
  • You can solve simple addition problems without counting all the objects
  • You can explain how you added two numbers using counting on

Why this matters

Counting on is a helpful way to add numbers quickly and easily. It's especially useful when you're adding a small number to a bigger number. This method helps you build a strong understanding of addition and prepares you for more complex maths like mental maths and problem-solving. You'll use this skill in many everyday situations, like sharing toys, counting your pocket money, or working out how many friends are coming to your party.

How it works

Here's how to add using counting on:
  1. Look at both numbers you need to add
  2. Start with the bigger number
  3. Count on from that number by the amount of the smaller number
  4. Stop when you've counted on the right amount
  5. That final number is your answer

Examples you can see

Let's try some examples using counting on: Example 1: 5 + 3 = ?
  • Start with the bigger number: 5
  • Count on 3 more: 6, 7, 8
  • Your answer is 8
Example 2: 7 + 2 = ?
  • Start with the bigger number: 7
  • Count on 2 more: 8, 9
  • Your answer is 9
Example 3: 4 + 6 = ?
  • Start with the bigger number: 6
  • Count on 4 more: 7, 8, 9, 10
  • Your answer is 10
You can also use objects to help you:
  • Put 5 toys in a row
  • Then add 3 more toys
  • Count on from 5: 6, 7, 8
  • You have 8 toys in total

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Treasure Hunt You're on a treasure hunt! You start with 7 steps forward, then you need to take 4 more steps to find the treasure. How many steps in total?
  • Start with the bigger number: 7 steps
  • Count on 4 more: 8, 9, 10, 11
  • You need to take 11 steps in total
Adventure: The Party Planning You have 8 balloons, and your friend gives you 3 more. How many balloons do you have now?
  • Start with the bigger number: 8 balloons
  • Count on 3 more: 9, 10, 11
  • You have 11 balloons in total
Adventure: The Football Game Your team scored 6 goals in the first half and 5 goals in the second half. How many goals did you score altogether?
  • Start with the bigger number: 6 goals
  • Count on 5 more: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
  • Your team scored 11 goals in total

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Starting with the smaller number instead of the bigger number
    Why it happens: Some children think they should start with the first number they see
    Fix: Always look at both numbers and start with the bigger one
  • Mistake: Counting one too many or one too few
    Why it happens: Children might get confused about whether to count the starting number or not
    Fix: Use your fingers or objects to help you count exactly the right amount
  • Mistake: Forgetting to count on the correct number of times
    Why it happens: Children may lose track of how many more to count
    Fix: Say the numbers out loud or use objects to keep track

Parent and carer guide

Here's how you can help your child learn counting on:
  • Practice with everyday objects like toys, snacks, or buttons
  • Use a number line to show how to count on
  • Ask your child to explain how they added two numbers
  • Encourage them to start with the bigger number
  • Don't worry if they make mistakes - they're learning!
  • Use games and stories to make it fun
  • Practice with simple problems like 4 + 2 or 6 + 3
  • Count together using fingers or physical objects
  • Reinforce that counting on is faster than counting everything
  • Be patient and encouraging - this is a new skill!

Practice questions

  1. What is 5 + 3 using counting on?
  2. What is 8 + 2 using counting on?
  3. What is 6 + 4 using counting on?
  4. What is 9 + 1 using counting on?
  5. What is 3 + 7 using counting on?
Answers:
  1. 8
  2. 10
  3. 10
  4. 10
  5. 10

FAQ

What is counting on in addition?

Counting on means starting from one number and counting forward to add. Instead of counting all the objects, you start with the bigger number and count on the smaller number.

Why do we start with the bigger number?

Starting with the bigger number makes counting on easier and faster. It means you have fewer numbers to count on, so it's quicker to get the answer.

Can I use counting on with any addition problem?

Yes! You can use counting on with any addition problem. It's especially helpful when one number is much bigger than the other.

How can I practice counting on at home?

You can practice by using toys, snacks, or fingers. Try adding 4 + 2, 6 + 3, or 5 + 4. Start with the bigger number and count on the smaller number.

What if I'm not sure which number is bigger?

If you're not sure, just look at both numbers and pick the bigger one. If they're the same, it doesn't matter which one you start with.