What Are Roman Numerals?
Roman numerals are a number system that was used in ancient Rome.
Instead of the numbers we use today (1, 2, 3...), Romans used letters from the Latin alphabet to represent values. You can still see Roman numerals today on clock faces, in movie credits, and on historic buildings!
The Roman Numeral Symbols
1️⃣ I = 1
2️⃣ V = 5
3️⃣ X = 10
4️⃣ L = 50
5️⃣ C = 100
6️⃣ D = 500
7️⃣ M = 1000
How Roman Numerals Work
Roman numerals are written by combining letters and adding their values. When a smaller numeral appears before a larger one, you subtract the smaller value (IV = 4). When it appears after, you add the values (VI = 6).
Let's Practice!
Example 1: Number Converter
Try converting between regular numbers and Roman numerals:
Example 2: Flashcard Challenge
Click the flashcard to see if you can remember the Roman numeral:
Try making your own flashcards with different numbers!
Parent Tips 🌟
- Make it a game: Create a scavenger hunt to find Roman numerals in your neighborhood (clocks, building dates, book chapters).
- Connect to history: Watch documentaries about ancient Rome together and point out when Roman numerals appear.
- Practice with birthdays: Have your child write family members' birth years in Roman numerals as a fun challenge.