Seeing the relationship between addition and subtraction is an important and challenging concept for first graders. As we continue to explore the idea of subtraction, students are working on finding a variety of ways to solve these complex problems. Students are learning to count up on a number line to solve a subtraction problem, in addition to counting backwards. They are encouraged to think about the way that makes the most sense. Some of these problems are more complex - and don't necessary have students solve a quick 9-3 (had 9 of something, 3 were taken away). An example of a problem from this week had kids thinking - should I add or subtract? Understanding math story problems and solving them in a variety of ways can be challenging, and kids are working hard each day to understand them. (There were 9 laces and velcro sneakers. 3 of them were velcro. How many were laced? 9-3=6 or 3+_=9) We will continue learning about the addition/subtraction relationship as the year progresses. We continue to have time during our math block for math games, that give kids more practice in the skill and help them to become more fluent with number sense and math facts.
Seeing the relationship between addition and subtraction is an important and challenging concept for first graders. As we continue to explore the idea of subtraction, students are working on finding a variety of ways to solve these complex problems. Students are learning to count up on a number line to solve a subtraction problem, in addition to counting backwards. They are encouraged to think about the way that makes the most sense. Some of these problems are more complex - and don't necessary have students solve a quick 9-3 (had 9 of something, 3 were taken away). An example of a problem from this week had kids thinking - should I add or subtract? Understanding math story problems and solving them in a variety of ways can be challenging, and kids are working hard each day to understand them. (There were 9 laces and velcro sneakers. 3 of them were velcro. How many were laced? 9-3=6 or 3+_=9) We will continue learning about the addition/subtraction relationship as the year progresses. We continue to have time during our math block for math games, that give kids more practice in the skill and help them to become more fluent with number sense and math facts.