The maya used symbols as numbers. But they also followed a certain pattern. Say for instance, 1 = a dot, 2 = 2 dots, and 5 = one bar.

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Now, try some of these math problems:

1 dot + 1 bar =

4 dots plus 5 bars =

1 dot plus 4 dots =

2 dots plus 3 bars =

3 dots plus 1 bar