Ordinal Numbers

What Are Ordinal Numbers?

• Ordinal numbers are special numbers that tell us the position or order of things in a line.
• Instead of saying "how many" (1, 2, 3), they tell us "which one" (1st, 2nd, 3rd).
• We use them when we talk about races, floors in a building, or dates on a calendar.

The Main Ordinal Numbers The first three numbers have special names, while most of the others end with a "th" sound.

• 1st (First): The very beginning of the line.
• 2nd (Second): The one right after the first.
• 3rd (Third): The one after the second.
• 4th (Fourth): Add "th" to the number four.
• 5th (Fifth): Add "th" to the number five.

Where Do We See Ordinal Numbers?

• In a Race: The person who runs the fastest comes in 1st place.
• Days of the Week: Monday is the 1st day of school, and Friday is the 5th day.
• In a Building: You might live on the 2nd floor or the 3rd floor.
• In a Book: You start reading the 1st page before moving to the 2nd page.

The Detective Strategy

1. Find the Start: Always look for where the line begins (usually on the left).
2. Point and Count: Instead of saying "one," say "first." Instead of "two," say "second."
3. Check the Ending: Look at the small letters next to the number (st, nd, rd, th) to help you say the name correctly.

Why Do We Learn This?

• It helps us follow directions, like "Pick the 2nd toy from the box."
• It helps us understand who won a game or a race.
• It makes it easier to talk about our schedule and what we do first, second, and last.

Lesson Summary

• Ordinal numbers tell us the place or position.
• The most important ones to remember are First, Second, and Third.
• They help us organize things in a clear and neat order.