NCERT Class 3 Mathematics Maths Mela: Chapter 3 — Double Century
This chapter, "The Story of Our Numbers," introduces students to the historical development of numbers and counting systems. It highlights how ancient civilizations, including ancient Indians, developed methods for recording quantities. A key focus is the ingenious invention of the ten symbols (0-9) by ancient Indians, which revolutionized mathematics and enabled modern technology. The chapter emphasizes the crucial role of the symbol '0' in making this numeral system functional. It sets the stage for learning to write any number using these ten symbols. The chapter includes activities like estimating objects and playing a number-filling game on a snakes and ladders board to reinforce number recognition and sequencing.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 3 |
| Subject | Mathematics |
| Book | Maths Mela |
| Chapter | Chapter 3 — Double Century |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 374 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the historical context of number systems.
- Recognize the significance of the ten digits (0-9) in mathematics.
- Appreciate the role of zero in the numeral system.
- Practice estimation skills with everyday objects.
- Reinforce number sequencing and recognition through games.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Counting | The action or process of numbering or enumerating things. |
| Records | A collection of related data kept as evidence or for future reference. |
| Symbols | A mark or character used as a conventional representation of an object or idea. |
| Ingenious | Clever, original, and inventive. |
| Invented | Create or design (a novel device, process, or technique). |
| Numerals | A symbol or number, especially one used in calculations. |
| Absence | The state of not being present or available. |
| Estimate | Roughly calculate or judge the value, number, quantity, or extent of. |
| Bangles | A rigid bracelet or anklet. |
| Laddoos | A round sweet, typically made of flour, ghee, and sugar. |
| Barfi | A dense milk-based sweet from the Indian subcontinent. |
| Bindis | A decorative mark worn on the forehead, typically by women. |
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Practice questions
- What did ancient Indians create thousands of years ago for writing numbers? Answer: Thousands of years ago, ancient Indians created a method for writing any number using only ten symbols: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.
- What is the importance of the symbol '0'? Answer: The symbol '0' is important because it means 'nothing' or the absence of something, and it made the system of writing numerals work.
- If you take a ladder from number 13 on the snakes and ladders board, which number will you reach? Answer: The text does not specify the destination of a ladder from 13, but the board shows 13 leading to 32.
- If you are on the snake at number 25, which number will you reach? Answer: The text does not specify the destination of a snake at 25, but the board shows 25 leading to 18.
Frequently asked questions
When did people start counting?
People started counting tens of thousands of years ago.
What did ancient Indians invent for writing numbers?
Ancient Indians invented a method for writing any number using only ten symbols: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.
What does the symbol '0' represent?
The symbol '0' represents 'nothing' or the absence of something.
Why is the invention of the ten symbols important?
This method of writing numbers is now used everywhere in the world and made possible the invention of modern technologies like TVs and computers.
What is the purpose of the 'Let us Do' activity?
The 'Let us Do' activity helps students practice estimating and writing the number of various objects shown in a picture.
What skills does the 'Let us Play' activity help develop?
The 'Let us Play' activity helps develop number recognition, sequencing, and understanding of game mechanics like ladders and snakes.
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 3 Mathematics — Maths Mela — Chapter 3 — Double Century. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.