Math Facts

Second Graders are following the new Common Core Learning Standards. The math standard we will be working on this week is:

2.OA.2 Add and subtract within 20. 
       Mathematical practices: 1. make sense of problems and perservere in solving them. 2. Reason abstractly and quantitatively. 3. Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others. 4. Model with mathematics. 5. Use appropriate tools strategically. 6. Attend to precision. 7. Look for and make use of structure. 8. Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning. That being said, the Common Core has raised expectations of our students, but at the same time, has given more time to learn and understand a concept.  It looks complex, but when broken down, teachers and students can begin to accomplish big tasks, one step at a time.

      What we, as educators, look at when planning lessons for our students are the essential questions and learning targets within a particular learning strand.   The essential question for this strand is "In what ways can operations affect numbers? and "How can different strategies be helpful when solving a problem?" The learning target gives us a more user friendly teachable plan for your child. The learning target for your child says: "I can fluently add two 1-digit numbers (within 20) in my mind" and "I can fluently subtract two 1 digit numbers (within 20) in my mind." From this I can find ways best suited for your child to know numbers, rather than having to use fingers to count.   They will know that 3 + 7 =10, and 11 - 6 = 5 automatically because they can "see" those numbers in their minds. You will hear words like 5 frames and 10 frames, rekenreks, and part and whole maps.  These are the teaching tools I will use when  helping your child with the Common Core Standard 2.OA.2.