Grade 3 Math TEKS 3.4A:Addition and Subtraction Fluency

Learning Target: I can solve one-step word problems using addition.

Focuses On:

• Using strategies and tools such as base ten models, expanded form and the standard algorithm to add numbers in context
• Understanding place value in order to add and regroup, setting students up for success with the standard algorithm

Builds On:

2.4C:

Solve one-step and multi-step word problems using addition and subtraction within 1,000 using a variety of strategies based on place value, including algorithms

Next Level:

4.4A:

Add and subtract whole numbers using the standard algorithm

Read More:

This lesson is designed to ensure students are able to solve addition problems in real-world situations. It works through three different strategies: using base ten models, expanded form, and the standard algorithm. This lesson builds the foundation for transitioning to using the algorithm fluently in 4th grade, while ensuring place value understanding remains in tact.

The three instructional blocks in this lesson focus on adding using tools such as base ten models, adding using expanded form and adding using the standard algorithm. 

In the first instructional block there are opportunities for students to see visual representations of numbers using base ten blocks.

The second instructional block focuses on expanded form anchoring to the concept of place value in order to explain the re-grouping process.

The third instructional block has students solve addition problems using the standard algorithm.

Scaffolds and supports such as models, pictorial representations and multiple strategies are intentionally built throughout the lesson to support conceptual learning.  

Learning Target: I can solve one-step word problems using subtraction.

Focuses On:

• Using strategies such as base ten models, the algorithm, and expanded form to subtract numbers in context
• Understanding place value in order to subtract and regroup, setting students up for success with the standard algorithm

Builds On:

2.4C:

Solve one-step and multi-step word problems involving addition and subtraction within 1,000 using a variety of strategies based on place value, including algorithms

Next Level:

4.4A:

Add and subtract whole numbers using the standard algorithm

Read More:

This lesson is designed to let students use strategies in real-world problems. The lesson starts by reinforcing their knowledge of place value to subtract using expanded form before putting the strategy into action. It moves into using base ten blocks to reinforce understanding of regrouping before explicitly teaching the standard algorithm. The lesson encourages students to use the strategy that works for them through assessment and checkpoints.

The three instructional blocks in this lesson focus on subtracting using expanded form, subtracting using base ten blocks and subtracting using the standard algorithm. 

In the first instructional block there are opportunities for students to subtract using expanded form, anchoring the process in the concept of place value.

The second instructional block focuses on using base ten blocks to reinforce why the process of re-grouping makes sense conceptually.

The focus of the third instructional block is solving subtraction problems using the standard algorithm.

Scaffolds and supports such as models, pictorial representations and multiple strategies are intentionally built throughout the lesson to support conceptual learning.  

It builds the foundation for 4th grade when students are expected to fluently add and subtract using the standard algorithm.

Learning Target: I can solve two-step word problems using addition and subtraction.

Focuses On:

• Solving two-step word problems by separating steps to take a "bite-sized" approach
• Solving two-step word problems involving information given in a table
• Solving two-step word problems involving information given in a list

Builds On:

2.4C:

Solve one-step and multi-step word problems involving addition and subtraction within 1,000 using a variety of strategies based on place value, including algorithms

Next Level:

4.4A:

Add and subtract whole numbers using the standard algorithm

Read More:

This lesson is designed to show students a bite-sized approach to problem solving, focusing on one step at a time to get to a solution. Each question is broken down into a three-step process: Step 1, Step 2, and the Solution. Students will also solve problems involving information presented in tables and lists in order to expose them to a variety of real-world problem formats.

There are three instructional blocks in this lesson.

In the first instructional block, students use the three-step process to break down the problem solving process. Students are given the three-step template in the first instructional block so the approach is scaffolded and organized in order to separate the steps.

The second instructional block focuses on solving two-step problems that involve information given in a table. The scaffolding of the three-step process that was taught in the first instructional block is integrated into this block as well.

The third instructional block involves students solving two-step problems that include information from lists. Once again, the three-step process from the first instructional block is presented in order to organizing the problem solving process.

Scaffolds and supports such as prompts, templates and information presented in multiple formats are intentionally built throughout the lesson to support conceptual learning.