Representing Addition and Subtraction
Represent addition and subtraction using objects, drawings, and mental images
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1590 concepts · 8 subjects
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Teaching approaches
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1 approach
We can make addition and subtraction visible. For addition, show the first group, add the second group, and count all. For subtraction, show the start, take some away, and count what is left.
Spend about 10 minutes modeling one put-together addition and one take-away subtraction with objects, then one drawing.
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Check understanding
- Use cubes or counters to show 3 + 2
- Draw a picture to represent a subtraction situation
- Use fingers to model an addition problem
“If your child has 3 apples and you give them 2 more, can they show you how many there are altogether — using their fingers, some small objects, or a drawing?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Representational
- Subject
- Mathematics
- Domain
- Addition & Subtraction
- Age range
- Ages 4–6
Standards