10 keeps proving itself to be one of the most powerful ideas in math. Ask a kid what 10+7 is and, without batting an eyelash, they'll proudly proclaim, "17".
I see so many of our little ones struggle with subtraction. Especially when they have a minuend over 10.
Adding, though, is one idea that seems to resonate easier with almost every kid. With this in mind, try using 10 as a "pit stop". In the example, we leverage their understanding of 10 + a single digit number and couple that with the idea of complements of 10. We'd ask:
"How far apart are 4 and 10?" or "How many do we need to add to 4 to make 10?"
Once they understand that they need 6, we're at the pit stop. The rest of the way is just 10 + a single digit number or 10 + 7.
Part 1 is 6 and part 2 is 7 or 13.
Did we "trick" them into adding instead of subtracting?
All I know is that they'll be able to repeat this over and over and never be wrong and they'll always be confident. That's ok in my book!
-Carlo
Mathnasium of East Sparks is a math-only learning center for K-12 students in Sparks, NV. Trusted by over a million parents, Mathnasium uses personalized learning plans and the proprietary Mathnasium Method™ to help students catch up, keep up, and get ahead on their math journey.
Our specially trained tutors deliver face-to-face instruction in a supportive and fun small-group environment, working with students to develop a deep understanding of math, build confidence, and improve academic performance.
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