Teaching children to add numbers or objects together may initially seem like an easy task. Once a child finds the concept difficult, it may begin to be a bit more challenging. Here are two simple methods that will work to teach addition even to children with a math disability.
Understanding the Concept of Addition
To add means to take two sets of objects and combine them. When introducing the concept of addition to students, a teacher should begin with physical objects, otherwise known as manipulatives, and not begin with numbers. In the early stages of addition learning, the sum of the numbers added together should remain small.
With base 10 units or any small object (candy works well too), have students group a small amount together into a pile. Then, ask the child to add a certain amount more to the pile. Then ask how many there are total.
Important: when teaching addition, use proper terms so that children can become used to them.
For example: Count 3 blocks. Now add two more blocks. How many blocks are there total?
While students are working with each addition problem, write the math on the board so that student will become used to seeing the math. So for the above example, the math would read: 3+2=5
Using objects to teach the concept of addition can work for progressively harder problems so long as the child is capable of counting to the total sum and the objects do not become cumbersome on the child’s desk.
Teaching Addition with a Number Line
Another method for teaching children how to add involves the use of a number line. This is especially helpful in teaching children a strategy for solving addition problems and can be useful for children with special learning needs. Here are the steps for the example 3+2=5.
- Touch the larger number. (3)
- Find it on the number line and put your finger or pencil tip on it.
- Count up the second number. (pencil tip should move to the 4 then the 5 – counting up 2 numbers)
- Write down the answer.
When teaching a child to use this method to add two numbers, it is important to have the child speak each step out loud in order for the teacher to be able to problem solve any issues that the child might have. When working with larger numbers, it may also be helpful for students to learn how to draw a simple number line. Knowing how to draw a number line also makes this strategy extremely beneficial for students with math disabilities when taking standardized tests, when a prefabricated number line will not be available for use.
Teaching Addition with Touch Math
Touch math is an entire program that teaches students how to do all basic math functions. The basics for addition are to have the student touch the larger number first then touch specific points on the smaller number to add it. To use this method, simply teach students how many dots (and where they should be placed – patterns make this easier) go on each number.
So when adding 3+2, students touch the three then count four, five while touching two separate points on the 2.
Many students will use their fingers to help them add numbers together. This is fine, providing they find an accurate answer using their fingers. If this method does not prove to be reliable for a student, it is important for the student to learn another strategy for solving addition problems.
Related Information:
Hands-On Math Lessons – Ideas for teaching math that involve students in more hands-on learning.
How to Teach Division – Strategies and ideas for teaching the basic concept of division to students.
How to Teach Students with a Math Disability – Ideas for making math simple for those who struggle with mathematical concepts.
How to Teach Multiplication – Strategies and ideas for teaching the basic concept of multiplication.
Jennifer Wagaman - Jennifer is a mother of 2 and has both public, private and administrative experience in the education field.
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