Understanding Tally Marks
Tally marks are a quick way to show numbers using lines. Every line represents one count. When we reach five, we draw four vertical lines and then a diagonal line across them.
- | = 1
- || = 2
- ||| = 3
- |||| = 4
- ||||̸ = 5
Count each line one by one. Remember, a group of five is easier to spot quickly.
Counting Groups of Five
When numbers get bigger, we use groups of five to make counting faster. Each group of tally marks equals five, and then we add the extra marks if needed.
- ||||̸ || = 7 (one group of 5 + 2 more)
- ||||̸ |||| = 9 (one group of 5 + 4 more)
- ||||̸ ||||̸ = 10 (two groups of 5)
Say “five” for each group, then add the leftover marks.
Reading Bigger Numbers with Tally Marks
Tally marks can show numbers all the way up to 20 and beyond. Each group of five helps us count quickly without needing to count each line one by one.
- ||||̸ ||||̸ || = 12 (two groups of 5 + 2 more)
- ||||̸ ||||̸ ||||̸ = 15 (three groups of 5)
- ||||̸ ||||̸ ||||̸ ||||̸ = 20 (four groups of 5)
Group marks in fives to avoid mistakes. Count “5, 10, 15...” then add the rest.
Using Tally Marks in Real Life
Tally marks are used for keeping score, counting items, and recording quick notes. They help us organize numbers in an easy-to-read way.
- Counting students in class attendance.
- Recording points in a game.
- Tracking how many times something happens.
Whenever you need to count quickly, use tally marks instead of writing the numbers every time.