Lesson 4
Introduction to Addition Algorithms
Lesson Purpose
The purpose of this lesson is for students to use their knowledge of base-ten diagrams to make sense of two written addition algorithms.
Lesson Narrative
In a previous lesson, students revisited addition within 1,000 using strategies based on place value, and properties of operations. An algorithm is different from a strategy because it is a set of steps that works every time as long as the steps are carried out correctly. The algorithms introduced in this lesson draw on the grade 2 work within 1,000 in that they show the addition of ones to ones, tens to tens, and hundreds to hundreds. Students should have access to base-ten blocks if they choose to use them.
- Engagement
- MLR7
Activity 1: What is an Algorithm?
Learning Goals
Teacher Facing
- Add within 1,000.
- Relate base-ten diagrams to written algorithms for addition.
Student Facing
- Let’s learn new ways to add.
Required Materials
Materials to Gather
Required Preparation
CCSS Standards
Addressing
Lesson Timeline
| Warm-up | 10 min |
| Activity 1 | 20 min |
| Activity 2 | 15 min |
| Lesson Synthesis | 10 min |
| Cool-down | 5 min |
Teacher Reflection Questions
In grade 2, students spent significant time working with place value. How did students’ work with place value prepare them for the move to using algorithms to add?
Suggested Centers
- Target Numbers (1–5), Stage 6: Add Hundreds, Tens, or Ones (Addressing)
- Five in a Row: Addition and Subtraction (1–2), Stage 8: Add within 1,000 with Composing (Addressing)
- Rectangle Rumble (3–5), Stage 2: Factors 1–5 (Supporting)