Center
Check It Off (K–1)
Stage 1: Add within 10
Narrative
Students take turns picking two number cards (0–5) to make and find the value of an addition expression. Students check off the number that represents the value of the sum (0–10) and then write the addition expression on the recording sheet.
This stage has two different recording sheets, one for kindergarten and another for grade 1. On the kindergarten recording sheet, students fill in blanks to record the expression. On the grade 1 recording sheet, students write in the full expression. Be sure to use the appropriate recording sheet with students.
Variation:
Students can roll two cubes (and treat 6 as a wild card) to provide visual support for each quantity.
Stage 2: Subtract within 10
Narrative
Students take turns picking two number cards (0–10) to make and find the value of a subtraction expression. Students check off the number that represents the value of the difference (0–10) and then write the subtraction expression on the recording sheet.
Variation:
Students can choose whether to add or subtract after picking two number cards.
Stage 3: Add or Subtract Tens
Narrative
Students take turns picking two number cards that are multiples of 10 (0–90) and choose whether to make an addition or subtraction expression. Students check off the value of the sum or difference (0–90) and then write the addition or subtraction expression on the recording sheet.