Math - diving into unit 2

In the first weeks of school, we reviewed addition and some math vocabulary; plus sign, number sentence, equation, addends, sum, counting on, counting by 10's and 1's and place value (counting models of tens and ones and identified how many groups of tens and ones composed the number).  We also solved horizontal and vertical math problems and how the equal signs are different for both. Students explored flip flop number sentences, where the addend just flip flop and the sum is stays the same (5+1=6 and so 1+5=6).  We used a double tens frame and cubes to explore this concept.  At the end of last week the class took our Unit 1 test.  Monday you'll receive a score sheet for your child with their grade and concepts they passed or did not on the test.  I was happy to see so many students understood the concepts!  We have some budding mathematicians!!  If your child did not pass the assessment please remember we constantly review all concepts previously taught, so there is ample time throughout the year to master concepts.  Any test is a snapshot and is not the one and only assessment tool when determining if a child "gets it".  

This week we began talking about decomposing numbers and looking for patterns...(Example from Wed. night HW; 10+0=10, 9+1=10, 8+2=10) and from there are beginning to explore the commutative property of addition...if 5+1=6 and 1+5=6 then does 5+1=1+5?  We are such super mathematicians we are now testing to see if 5+1=2+4 while use our manipulatives, like unifix cubes and tools such as number lines, tens frames and drawing pictures.  We are not however, substituting letters for numbers like in the video below...it is just a reference for you to "brush up" on some math vocabulary.  :)

As you can see, we have been quite busy!  Encourage your child to use other tools, even coins to practice counting by tens and ones (dimes and pennies) AND to try to their best.  We want them to be risk takers and to have the confidence to make an educated guess instead of worrying about being right, therefore not trying or participating in their own learning.