A recent math lesson reiterated the reason why understanding how to decompose numbers is so important.
Decomposing numbers is often done using ten frames in the early grades. The objective is for students to think about the number of circles that they need in order to make a whole. In this case, a "whole" is ten. Although decomposing is emphasized in kindergarten and first grade, decomposing numbers and parts of a whole is still an important concept that should be taught at the higher grade levels.
Many students have a basic understanding of what a fraction is, but understanding fractions at a deeper level can make the connection between what makes a "whole" and adding plus subtracting mixed numbers even easier.
Literacy and Math Ideas has task cards that come with a printable box. They teach and review a variety of math concepts to provide individualized instruction. Click the link to see them.Click Here And Scroll Down
.gif)
Decomposing is such an important skill for subtracting fractions. This is the first year I have ever taught it this way... and for some, it actually makes sense! Great post!
ReplyDeleteKim
Finding JOY in 6th Grade
Thank you Kim. Learning how to think of numbers in parts makes it easier to grasp underlying math concepts. It also helps students do mental math too.
ReplyDelete