CBSE · Class 8 · Mathematics · Chapter 3

A Story of Numbers

Trace the development of number systems and understand the efficiency of place-value representation.

8 lessons 55 min
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Lessons in this chapter

  1. 1Reema’s CuriosityExplore why humans count, one-to-one mapping, number systems and numerals.
  2. 2Some Early Number SystemsExplore body-part counting, tally marks and grouping-based number names.
  3. 3The Roman NumeralsUnderstand Roman landmark numbers, representation and arithmetic limitations.
  4. 4The Idea of a BaseBuild the idea of base systems from Egyptian powers of 10 and a base-5 model.
  5. 5Advantages of a Base-n SystemSee why regular base systems simplify regrouping, arithmetic and abacus representation.
  6. 6Place Value Representation — Mesopotamian and Mayan SystemsUnderstand positional notation, base 60, placeholders and the Mayan place-value system.
  7. 7Place Value Representation — Chinese and Hindu SystemsCompare Chinese and Hindu place-value systems and understand the role of zero.
  8. 8Chapter Summary and PractiseReview the evolution from counting and grouping to bases, place value and zero.
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