Topic
Number sense and arithmetic are two of the most fundamental math skills. Learning arithmetic is critical for students who want to eventually study more advanced mathematics, including algebra and calculus. Arithmetic is the branch of mathematics that deals with the properties and manipulation of numbers. It includes addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, exponentiation, and rooting. Number sense is the ability to understand and work with numbers. It includes an understanding of place value, a sense of what numbers are reasonable to use in different situations, and the ability to estimate. Good number sense is essential for success in arithmetic and other areas of math.