1.3.B

Math1st GradeNumber and operations

The Standard

use objects and pictorial models to solve word problems involving joining, separating, and comparing sets within 20 and unknowns as any one of the terms in the problem such as 2 + 4 = [ ]; 3 + [ ] = 7; and 5 = [ ] - 3

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Mathematics

Teacher's field guide

What This Standard Means

What Students Need to Do

Students use counters or drawings to model addition and subtraction stories with numbers to 20. They find a missing start, change, result, or comparison amount and write a matching equation.

What Mastery Looks Like

A student chooses addition or subtraction to match a joining, separating, or comparing story. The student finds the unknown in any position and explains how the model matches the equation.

Common Misconceptions

Students may always add when they hear “more” or subtract when they hear “left.” They may also think the unknown must come after the equals sign or reverse the quantities in a comparison.

How to Assess It

Give this exit ticket: “Noah had some marbles. He gave away 3 and has 5 left. How many did he start with?” Require a drawing or counters and an equation.

Lesson moves

Ways to Teach It

  1. Give pairs counters and story cards; students build each story, cover the unknown group with a cup, then solve.

  2. Ask students to draw and explain two different stories that match 8 = 5 + 3.

  3. Play an equation match game where students pair picture cards, story cards, and equations with unknowns in different positions.

  4. Use classroom pencils to act out getting more, giving some away, and comparing two students’ amounts.

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