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A Story of Numbers

CBSE · Class 8 · Mathematics

Complete topic list for A Story of Numbers in CBSE Class 8 Mathematics. Key concepts, sub-topics, and what to focus on for board exams.

113 questions70 flashcards5 concepts

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4 Topics · CBSE Class 8 Mathematics

Topics in A Story of Numbers

1

1. Early Ways of Counting and Representing Numbers

  • One-to-one mapping means matching each object with exactly one stick, mark, or symbol.
  • Tally marks are notches cut on surfaces such as bones or cave walls.
  • The Ishango bone dates back 20,000 to 35,000 years and was discovered in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
2

2. Number Systems Before the Hindu System

  • The Roman number system used I, V, X, L, C, D, and M as landmark numbers.
  • Roman numerals were used in Europe before being replaced by the Hindu number system.
  • Roman numerals were not built on powers of a single base, so large numbers and multiplication were difficult.
3

3. The Idea of Base and Place Value

  • A number system with a base uses powers of one number as landmark numbers.
  • This makes writing and multiplying numbers easier.
  • In the Egyptian system, the landmark numbers are powers of 10.
4

4. Zero and the Hindu Number System

  • The digits 0 to 9 originated and developed in India around 2000 years ago.
  • The first known instance of numbers written using ten digits including 0 as a dot appears in the Bakhshali manuscript, c. 3rd century CE.
  • Aryabhata was the first mathematician to fully explain and do elaborate scientific computations with the Indian system of 10 symbols.

Key Concepts

Central concept: Evolution of number systems from counting methods to the Hindu decimal place-value system

Need for countingOne-to-one mappingNumber systemNumeralsMethod 1: sticksMethod 2: sounds or namesMethod 3: Roman numeralsEarly tally marks

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in A Story of Numbers for CBSE Class 8 Mathematics?
A Story of Numbers covers several key topics that are frequently asked in CBSE Class 8 board exams. Focus on the core concepts listed on this page and practise related questions to build confidence.
How to score full marks in A Story of Numbers — CBSE Class 8 Mathematics?
Understand the core concepts first, then work through the 113 practice questions available for this chapter. Revise formulas and definitions regularly, and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

More resources for A Story of Numbers

All 14 chapters — CBSE Class 8 Mathematics Syllabus

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