- Definition
A whole number is any counting number like 0, 1, 2, 3, and so on, without any fractions or decimals.
0, 3, and 12 are whole numbers because they have no fractional parts.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Whole numbers are like counting steps — no halves or pieces, just full steps.
Ask your child: Can you name some whole numbers you see around us?
Common mix-up: Kids may think whole numbers start at 1. Zero is also a whole number.
Examples
- Counting apples: 1, 2, 3.
- Page numbers in a book.
whole number is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
+73 more mentions across the curriculum
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
