How to teach addition
Pre-K to Grade 4
Addition is combining two or more amounts to find a total. It is usually the first operation children meet, starting with counting all, then counting on, then number facts.
How to teach it
- Start concrete: combine real objects and count the total.
- Move to counting on from the larger number rather than counting all.
- Teach number bonds to 10 and 20 so facts become automatic.
- Introduce two-digit addition, then regrouping (carrying) once single-digit facts are fluent.
Common mistakes
- Always counting from one instead of counting on.
- Forgetting to carry into the next column when regrouping.
- Lining up digits incorrectly in column addition.
Practise with free worksheets
Printable worksheets with answer keys that are never wrong.