Math in Focus

One of our Kindergarten Math goals is to help children understand how numbers less than or equal to 10 can be made in many different ways.  We explore different combinations of numbers using cubes, counters, double-sided beans, and our fingers.

Common Core Standard:

3. Decompose numbers less than or equal to 10 into pairs in more than one way, e.g., by using objects or drawings, and record each decomposition by a drawing or equation (e.g., 5 = 2 + 3 and 5 = 4 + 1).

Cubes are used to help children understand how numbers can be built in different ways.

Children learn to record number sentences after building different number combinations using manipulatives.  Proper numeral formation is also worked on at this time. 

After children understand how numbers are made in different ways, we work on learning how to add and subtract fluently within 5.  This is another Kindergarten standard.

Common Core Standard:
5. Fluently add and subtract within 5.

Games such as I wish I had 5 are played during our WIN time block.  Much like Go Fish children take turns trying to build combinations that add up to 5.

Children learn their number facts to 5 in a fun and game-like way.