CCSS.Math.Content.3.NBT.A
The standard
Use place value understanding and properties of operations to perform multi-digit arithmetic.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics
What this standard means
Students need to use place value to add, subtract, multiply, and divide with larger numbers. They should explain what each digit is worth and use that to choose a workable strategy, such as breaking numbers apart, using partial products, or regrouping.
Mastery looks like accurate work with a clear method, not just a memorized procedure. Students can check whether an answer makes sense with rounding or estimation. Common trouble spots are lining up digits by place, regrouping across zeros, and confusing the value of digits in the ones, tens, and hundreds places.
Ways to teach it
- Give students base-ten blocks and have them model 247 plus 138, then record the matching written strategy.
- Ask students to explain which is easier, 399 plus 256 or 400 plus 255, and why the answers match.
- Have students solve 603 minus 278 on a sticky note and circle where regrouping happened.
- Use a grocery receipt total and ask students to estimate, then calculate, the cost of buying three of the same item.
Plan a lesson for CCSS.Math.Content.3.NBT.A
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Related standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.1.NBT.C
Use place value understanding and properties of operations to add and subtract.
- CCSS.Math.Content.4.NBT.A
Generalize place value understanding for multi-digit whole numbers.
- CCSS.Math.Content.4.NBT.B
Use place value understanding and properties of operations to perform multi-digit arithmetic.
- CCSS.Math.Content.2.NBT.B
Use place value understanding and properties of operations to add and subtract.