Subitizing Dot Talks for Number Talks; Subitize for Number Sense Grades 3-4

Subitizing is an important aspect of number sense. When students can subitize, they are able to recognize arrangements of dots without counting them one by one. This strengthens overall number sense and allows them to think flexibly and see numbers in different ways.

Dot Talks take the research behind subitizing and help you implement it easily and practically. Better yet, they are FUN for students and are a fantastic way to start number talks in your classroom.

In this Grade 3-4 version of Dot Talks, you will find 160 subitizing activities to help your students:

• build number sense
• visualize numbers and strategies
• become strategic and flexible thinkers
• boost math confidence

Most activities are done as quick looks, meaning that you will flash a slide, giving students enough time to see the dots, but not enough time to count them one by one. Students will explain how they saw the dots, and through this sharing time will realize that there are many ways to see, compose, and decompose numbers!

Often you'll find an extension after the quick look, allowing students to visualize different strategies and think flexibly as they practice mental computation.

How can you use these subitizing activities in your classroom?

• Use them as a math warm-up to get students excited about learning.
• Use them as part of your number talks routine. This will be especially useful at the beginning of the school year as you are introducing the concept of number talks and encouraging all students to participate in a way that feels comfortable.
• Use them after a lesson to end math class in a fun, positive way.

For more information about exactly what is included in this resource, please see the preview.