Ordinal Numbers
Ordinal numbers tell us about the order or position of something in a list — like 1st, 2nd, 3rd. We use them to describe who comes first in a race or which floor of a building.
What You Need to Know
Ordinal numbers tell us about the order or position of something in a list — like 1st, 2nd, 3rd. We use them to describe who comes first in a race or which floor of a building.
Key Concept Diagram
Ordinal numbers show position: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th...
They come from the counting numbers: one → first, two → second, three → third
We use ordinal numbers for positions, floors, dates, and race results
From 4th onwards the pattern is regular: 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th...
Key Vocabulary
ordinal number
A number that shows position or order (1st, 2nd, 3rd)
first
The ordinal number for position 1 — winning a race
second
The ordinal number for position 2
third
The ordinal number for position 3
Knowledge Check
Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.
Question 1
What is the ordinal number for position 1?
Question 2
Sam finished in 3rd place. Which ordinal number is this?
Question 3
There are 5 children in a line. Which child is in the SECOND position?
Question 4
Which of these is an ordinal number?
Question 5
Maya is 5th in line. How many people are in front of her?
Key Concepts Summary
- ●Ordinal numbers show position: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th...
- ●They come from the counting numbers: one → first, two → second, three → third
- ●We use ordinal numbers for positions, floors, dates, and race results
- ●From 4th onwards the pattern is regular: 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th...