Singapore Math

I absolutely LOVE Singapore Math strategies.  I have been to numerous training sessions and everytime I gather more strategies to help my students understand math.  I have to admit that my first experience during training sessions left me a little uncomfortable since was very different from the way I learned math.  Soon I realized that I had I learned this way, perhaps, I would have had my light bulb moment sooner than my junior year.  Yes, I remember that moment with my Algebra II teacher when I realized that all of the math concepts that I had been taught FINALLY came together.  I remember thinking....this is what they have been talking about all these years.  WOW! 

Anyway, back to Singapore Math.  The first major focus is on number bonds.  Number bonds can be also called number stories.  Many students generalize the idea that, for example, the number 6 is the number after 5 and before 7.  It may never occur to them that 6 is so much more!  Let me show you a pic of what I use when working on the number bonds. 

This is from my newest math tub activity called Math Wizards Primary - Number Sense   The students use expo markers and have to write the missing number from the bonds.  I have printed the cards on cardstock and laminated them.  To keep them honest, I have a recording sheet of various bonds.  They have to pay attention since I didn't have all of them on there.  They are still required to do them all but only record the ones on the recording sheet. 

You're wondering why is number bonds so important.  Well, as adults - we've learned some tricks (as we call them) - really called number sense.  For example, when you add a list of about 6 two or three digit numbers - what do you use as a short cut?  I look for 10s.  If students learn early different ways to break up numbers, they will have greater number sense, which in turn will help build reasonablenss.  We all know how hard it is for students to understand reasonableness. 

I am working on another math tub activity for addition using another strategy.  If only I didn't have to sleep.  hahaha!

Y'all have a great week.
~Shannon~