Virginia SOL 1.CE.1.h

Math1st GradeComputation and Estimation

The Standard

Identify and use (+) as a symbol for addition and (-) as a symbol for subtraction.

Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will recall with automaticity addition and subtraction facts within 10 and represent, solve, and justify solutions to single-step problems, including those in context, using addition and subtraction with whole numbers within 20. 

Teacher's field guide

What This Standard Means

What Students Need to Do

Students connect each operation sign to an action: putting quantities together or taking part away. They choose and write the correct sign in number sentences.

What Mastery Looks Like

Students correctly name each sign and explain the action it represents. They place the correct sign in an equation after seeing a model, picture, or short story.

Common Misconceptions

Students may confuse the two signs or treat them as decoration. They may choose a sign by guessing instead of noticing whether quantities join or separate.

How to Assess It

Exit ticket: Fill in each blank with + or -: “6 cubes, get 3 more: 6 __ 3” and “9 cubes, give away 4: 9 __ 4.”

Lesson moves

Ways to Teach It

  1. Give pairs counters and operation cards; students model 6 + 3 and 9 - 4, then place the matching card.

  2. Show 7 + 2 and 7 - 2; ask students to explain how the sign changes what they do.

  3. Play Sign Sort: students draw an equation card and place it under a plus or minus heading.

  4. Use a snack story: five crackers gain two or lose two, and students choose the sign for each event.

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Printable 1.CE.1.h Worksheet

Preview of the 1.CE.1.h printable worksheet

A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to 1.CE.1.h, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.

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