Naalgloshi Wolt’a Bahane

Abstract

This unit is going to focus on teaching students addition and subtraction word problems up to 20. It includes various types of culturally related word problems that include adding together, counting on, missing addend and subtraction. Students will read and engage with various types of problems and problem solving strategies. Such a “worthwhile problem gives students the chance to solidify and extend what they know and stimulate mathematical learning” (NCTM, 2000, pg 1). The unit will start with asking students to model problems using manipulatives like gummy bears, cookies, stickers and then move into more abstract representations like counting squares. As students progress from physical manipulatives to counting squares, they will also learn to line up squares in a horizontal linear fashion so that they start developing a sense of a rectangular model, “teachers allow students to engage with multiple representations of mathematical concepts and relationships, comparing and contrasting these as a means to deepen understanding” (Ellis, 2019, p 10). Once they see the rectangular model, a connection to the more abstract tape diagram will be made. In addition to solving problems, the Singapore tape diagram approach can also help students visualize how to write number sentences that represent the word problem.