Reading +, −, and = symbols
Read, write, and interpret the symbols +, −, and = in number sentences
Teaching approaches
Gakuva’s recommended starting approach is selected. You can still compare every option.
1 approach
Plus means put together. Minus means take away. Equals means both sides are the same amount—not a button that means “write the answer.”
Spend about 10 minutes reading three ready number sentences, building them with objects, and saying what each symbol means.
Learning resources
Reviewed external links that reinforce this concept. They do not replace Gakuva’s teaching approach.
Addition To 10
Supplemental symbol practice: read and complete equations that display +, − is not used here, and =. Pair with adult talk about what each symbol means.
Proof: Save a screenshot of a completed equation and a parent note that the learner pointed to + and = and explained each mark.
Subtraction To 10
Supplemental symbol practice for − and = in take-away equations within 10.
Proof: Save a screenshot of a completed subtraction equation and a parent note that the learner explained the minus and equals signs.
Explore the learning path
3 before · 4 after
Before
This concept
Check understanding
- Read 3 + 2 = 5 aloud as 'three plus two equals five'
- Write a number sentence to match a concrete addition situation
- Interpret the = sign as 'is the same as' rather than just 'the answer is'
“If you write '4 + 3 = 7' on paper, can your child tell you what the plus sign, minus sign, and equals sign each mean?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Language
- Subject
- Mathematics
- Domain
- Addition & Subtraction
- Age range
- Ages 5–6
Standards