Singapore Math Addition Strategies

We tend to think our children need to learn their math facts--then go to double digit addition, first with no regrouping, then with regrouping.  Once they can add two digit numbers, it should generalize to larger numbers.  But is it that easy?  Lately, during my workshops, I've been asking teachers to see how many ways they can find to add.  I do the traditional algorithm, just to take it out of the mix.  My wonderful North Carolina teachers came up with all these different ways to add numbers together.

We started talking about manipulatives.  Using Zolton Dienes theories, we went from proportional, everyday materials to non proportional materials.  Then we went to lots of our favorite Singapore Math strategies like number bonds (building 10s) and left to right addition (based on place value.

We also talked about other methods that children should be comfortable using--hundreds charts and open number lines.  Finally, we went to partial sums, which I think is a critical, missing piece.  The traditional algorithm is the last piece.

Thanks Murphey Traditional teachers for putting in the work to make this as a teacher anchor chart!  

Anchor Charts

Take an objective look at your room.  What percent of the space is taken up with each content area?  What is taken up with store-bought materials that just becomes wallpaper?  Does math have equal representation? Your walls should reflect your teaching style.  Our walls need to be dynamic and part of our instruction   I strongly believe in anchor charts.

This is an anchor chart used in my old school district

 I wish I could remember where I got this one!!

Anchor charts don't have to be cute.  As a matter of fact, I believe they should be made with your students and should be in the children's natural language.  You may continue to edit them as you continue instruction in that area or spiral back to it, increasing the depth and complexity.  They need to be referenced during instruction so they don't just become wall paper.  Studies show that students look towards these anchor charts, even though they are removed or covered during testing, as a memory trigger.

 This came from a classroom in Holland, MI

Thanks, Jana Hazekamp for sharing these!

You can see lots more on my pinterest anchor chart page.  Pinterest.com/Ricky_Mikelman