Unit Plan 13 (Grade K Math): Addition Stories to 10

Focus: Represent add-to and put-together stories within 10 using objects/drawings, then write simple equations to match.

Grade Level: K

Subject Area: Mathematics (Operations & Algebraic Thinking)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 30–40 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Students act out and model addition stories to build meaning for joining quantities. They use counters, drawings, ten-frames, and number paths to represent the story, then record it with an equation using + and =. Emphasis is on telling the story, showing a model, and matching it to a simple number sentence.

Essential Questions

• How do I show an addition story with objects or a drawing?
• How does an equation (with + and =) tell the same story as my model?
• What strategies help me find the total within 10?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Represent add-to and put-together stories (within 10) with objects, drawings, or ten-frames.
2. Count on or use part-part-whole to find the total.
3. Write and read simple equations (e.g., 3 + 2 = 5) that match their models.
4. Explain how the model and equation show the same story (what was added, what is the total).
5. Choose a tool (counters, ten-frame, number path) that makes the story clear.

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 word problems and add within 10 using objects or drawings to represent the problem.
• Mathematical Practices: MP.4 (Model with mathematics) emphasized; MP.2, MP.6 threaded.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can show an addition story with objects or a drawing.
• I can find the total and write an equation with + and =.
• I can explain how my model matches my equation.