While we frequently discuss students Number Sense as if it were a single entity, it is necessary to understand the five strands of number sense and how they work together. For a student to be numerate they must demonstrate proficiency in all five strands. Each of the strands should be taught and assessed at all grade levels. It is worth noting that there is increasing complexity within each strand as students master skills. The five strands are counting and subitizing, types of numbers, number representations, place value and base ten numeration and number relationships. Each of these strands is woven together into the whole, creating a rich understanding of number.
