Using a strategy-based approach helps students master their back addition and subtraction facts. One such strategy for tackling those harder facts, like 7 + 8, is the Near Doubles strategy. Students often easily learn their doubles (2 + 2, 3 + 3, 4 + 4, etc.). If your kiddos are still learning their doubles, check out this post for a fun kinesthetic way to practice.
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The Near Doubles strategy involves decomposing one addend to make a double with the other addend. For example 7 + 8 is the same as 7 + 7 plus 1 more. Double ten frames are great for exploring the strategy. Have students build each addend on a different ten frame using two-color counters. For example, 7 + 8 would look like this:
You can download a ten-frame template here.
After you’ve introduced the strategy and students have had a chance to work with manipulatives to understand the strategy, it’s time for a little independent practice! This little freebie includes a set of workstation cards and an “I Can ” card for student directions. Have students record their work in their math journals for accountability and for a quick formative assessment.
Grab your freebie here! 🙂
Check out this post for a similar FREE activity for using the Make a Ten strategy.
And if you’re looking for a great resource for strategy-based fact instruction, try this book:
It seems like that jump from doubles to doubles plus one is a hard one. Thanks for the ideas and freebies to help!
Sara
My pleasure, Sara!
My district is using Number Talks and it focuses on Doubling and Halving.. This is perfect.. Thanks.
Susan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZfRaWAtBVg
Love, LOVE Number Talks, Susan. We do them K-5! BTW, that YouTube video is so creative! Why wasn’t stuff like that around when I was learning history? I shared the link on my FB page. 🙂
Hi Donna
An other handy resource. I have been following your blog for a couple of years now and have used many of your resources with my classes. I just wanted to say thanks for sharing your own learning with the rest of us teachers. You have certainly made an impact on the learning of my Aussie students.
Regards
Caroline
Thank you so much, Caroline, for taking the time to leave such a sweet comment. 🙂
Love that book too!!! Thanks for all you do Donna.
Thanks for the help this will really benefit my daughter!!
I love the Mastering the Basic Math Facts in Addition and Subtraction book. Do you find the book Mastering the Basic Math Facts in Multiplication and Division to be as helpful?
Yes, absolutely! My copies of both are well-worn. 🙂
Hi! I love the resource you shared in this blog post for using number bonds for the doubles plus one strategy. When I click on the link, it takes me to a multiplication domino practice sheet. Can you help please?
Thanks!
Heather
Oops! Fixed!