Today is rung 2 of 8 on this topic
Adding and subtracting within 10
Can do: Solves 4 + 3 and 8 − 2 with objects, fingers, or by counting on.
Why it matters
These facts become automatic through use, not through flashcards. The strategy underneath — counting on rather than counting all — is the thing to actually teach.
What it looks like when it's wobbly
Counts everything from one every time: for 8 + 2 they count out eight, then two, then all ten.
⏱️ Two-minute check
"You have 6 grapes and I give you 3 more. How many?" Watch what they do with their hands.
Solid looks like: Correct answer, ideally by starting at six and counting on three.
The full activity for this topic · 10 minutes
Snack Math
- 1Set out a first group and say the number aloud. Cover it with your hand.
- 2Add the second group visibly: "Six is hiding. Count on from six."
- 3Do the reverse for subtraction: take some away and hide them, ask how many are left.
- 4Say the whole number sentence each time: "Six plus three equals nine."
- 5Eat the answer. It matters more than you'd think.
If it's too hard
Adding one or two only, so counting on is short.
If it's too easy
Ask the missing part: "You have six. How many more to get to ten?"
Say this
"Six is in my hand. Don't count it again — start at six and count the new ones on."