Unit Plan 22 (Grade K Math): Add/Sub within 10—Mixed Stories
Solve story problems within 10 by modeling with drawings or objects, then write equations with an unknown and explain how the model matches the situation.
Focus: Solve varied story problems within 10 using drawings/objects and clear explanations; emphasize linking situations to equations with an unknown.
Grade Level: K
Subject Area: Mathematics (Operations & Algebraic Thinking)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 30–40 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students practice solving addition and subtraction story problems within 10 using counters, drawings, five-/ten-frames, and part–part–whole mats. They learn to retell the story, model it, and explain how the model shows the answer, connecting to simple equations with a box/□ for the unknown.
Essential Questions
- What does the story tell me to do: put together or take away?
- How can my drawing/model and equation show the same thinking?
- How do I explain my answer so others can follow?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Solve add-to, put-together, take-from, and simple compare stories within 10 using drawings/objects.
- Represent stories with part–part–whole models and equations (e.g., 3 + 4 = □, 9 − □ = 6).
- Explain solutions using story language (first/then/now) and math words (add, subtract, equals).
- Check reasonableness by re-telling and matching the model to the story.
Standards Alignment — CCSS Kindergarten (threaded across the unit)
- K.OA.1: Represent addition and subtraction with objects, fingers, mental images, drawings, sounds, acting out, verbal explanations, expressions, or equations.
- K.OA.2: Solve addition and subtraction word problems, and add/subtract within 10 using objects/drawings to represent the problem.
- Mathematical Practices: MP.2 (reason about quantities), MP.4 (model), MP.6 (precision), MP.1 (persevere) threaded.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can tell what happens in the story (add/put together or take away).
- I can show the story with a drawing or objects and write an equation with a box for the unknown.
- I can explain how my model and equation match the story.