What is a Whole Number?
A member of the set {0, 1, 2, 3...}, (the natural numbers including 0).
A whole number is any positive integer without a fractional or decimal part. It includes all of the counting numbers, 1, 2, 3, and so on, plus the number 0. These numbers are used to count, compare quantities, and perform basic math operations.
Examples of whole numbers:
- 0 (zero)
- 1, 2, 3 (and so on)
- 15, 100, 1,000,000
Whole numbers do not include:
- Fractions like \(\Large\frac{1}{2}\)
- Decimals like 3.75
- Negative numbers like –2
Whole numbers are the building blocks for many types of math and appear in everyday life, like counting apples, pages in a book, or steps in a staircase.
When Do Students Learn About Whole Numbers?
Students begin learning about whole numbers as soon as they are introduced to numbers and counting.
Grades K–2 – Introduction to Whole Numbers
Students learn to recognize, count, write, and compare whole numbers. They also begin using them in simple addition and subtraction problems.
Grades 3+ – Expanding Skills with Whole Numbers
Students use whole numbers in multiplication, division, estimation, place value, and word problems. These concepts continue to appear throughout elementary and middle school math.
