We all know that learning about missing addends or unknown numbers is challenging for our first and second graders. As teachers we recognize that it can be challenging to teach as well. We have all taught a concept and thought the students understood it and then we find out they don’t! It can make our teacher heart sad (and frustrated). This happens a lot with missing addends. I want to give you a couple of hints that have worked for me in the classroom.
What activities can help students learn about missing addends?
- Games work great! I love to play “What is missing?” I place objects out so students can see them. Ask the students to count the objects and then close their eyes. While their eyes are closed I remove some of the objects. When they open their eyes they tell me how many are missing. After a couple of turns I begin to illustrate the missing objects in written form on a chart or on a whiteboard. This game can be played for several days using different objects.
- Drawings work for this skill as well. The students can illustrate a problem you give them such as: There are 3 cats. Some more cats join them and now there are seven cats. You can think of some ideas that your class will be interested in for their problems.
- Giving the students extra practice throughout the year is very important. It is always tempting to move on to the next skill without practicing skills we have already taught. Our days are busy! I keep a few activities ready to go when we may have some extra time. These activities can include worksheets, task cards and games.
Are you looking for a missing addends activity?
Check out this forever freebie that I have created just for you. Click here for your missing addends worksheet.
I hope these ideas will help you in your classroom. See you soon with more ideas!
Sarah Winchell
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