Have you ever heard of Incredible Equations?
This picture shows what I'm talking about.
This can be done every day or once a week. But it should be done on a regular basis in order for the students to catch on and understand number sense better.
Here are the simple directions:
- Pick a number for them to focus on. In the beginning of the year, pick a smaller number. (You may have to teach them several ways to find those answers, but in time, some kids will see it on their own.)
- Students think of numbers that would have that chosen number as an answer.
- They can use a variety of strategies to equal that number. (add, subtract, multiply, and divide)
- Look for patterns that might repeat if you add one to each number or subtract one from each number. (52-27, 53-28, 54-29, 55-30, etc.)
- Stretch their brains by telling them that one thing is the same as another name, like 5+5+5+5+5 is the same as 5x5.
- They can add 2 numbers, 3 numbers, or more to get to the chosen number.
The kids love this and they love saying the words Incredible Equations. Great vocabulary!
You can do this on a pad of paper, your whiteboard or whatever works for your room.
Please let me know if you try this and how well it works with your kiddos.
