Five pages on the first strategies past counting all: counting on and counting back within 20. Page 1 shows a die and a number card (or two dice): students circle the bigger number, count on the dots of the other one in boxes, and write the sum. Page 2 puts the same idea on a number line, and half the problems have the smaller number first, so students turn them around and start with the bigger one. Page 3 shows a number in two ten frames; students cross out dots from the end and write each number they say as they count back. Page 4 hops back on a number line. Page 5 mixes adding and subtracting with no pictures: write where you start, then the numbers you say. Each page starts with a worked example.
Model counting on with a number card and a die: put the card face up, say its number, then touch each dot on the die and keep counting. Ask why it is faster to start with the bigger number. For counting back, stand on a number path taped to the floor and take a step back for each number you take away. Keep the second number small (1, 2 or 3): that is where these strategies are quickest.
Play with two dice or a deck of cards: turn over a card, roll a die, and count on from the card. For counting back, line up 15 small toys, take away 2 and say "14, 13" as each one goes. Ask "Which number did you start with? Why?"
This pack supports the following Common Core State Standards for Mathematics:
© Copyright 2010. National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and Council of Chief State School Officers. All rights reserved.
A 5-page 1st grade pack for adding and subtracting within 20 by counting on and counting back. Circle the bigger number on a die or a number card and count on the dots of the other one. Start with the bigger number and hop on a number line, even when it comes second. Cross out dots in ten frames and write the numbers you say as you count back, then hop back on a number line. Last, count on to add or count back to subtract in your head. Every page comes in color and in black and white. Answer keys included.
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