Lesson Plan Template
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Grade
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Subject
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Section
First
Math
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Competency
Understand subtraction (1)
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Aligned Standards
Operations and Algebraic Thinking
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Strand
1.OA.C.5
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Vocabulary
- Subtraction: The process of finding the difference by taking away one number from another.
- Manipulatives: Objects used to help visualize and understand mathematical concepts.
Use Cubes for Subtraction (up to 10)
Prerequisite Skill
Materials and Preparation
- Connecting cubes
- Whiteboard and markers
- TeachTastic Worksheet Pack
Learning Objectives
- Students will solve subtraction problems within 10 using manipulatives.
- Students will understand the concept of subtraction as taking away.
- Students will demonstrate the ability to record subtraction problems and solutions accurately.
Introduction
Begin by discussing the concept of subtraction using everyday contexts, such as if someone has 5 apples and eats 1, how many are left? Demonstrate this scenario using 5 connecting cubes, removing 1 to show the result. Explain that today, they will use cubes to solve subtraction problems and understand how many are left after taking some away.
Explicit Instruction/Teacher modeling
Describe the process of using manipulatives to solve subtraction problems:
- Start with the total number of cubes.
- Remove the necessary number of cubes as described by the subtraction problem.
- Count the cubes that remain.
- Record the subtraction equation based on the action performed.
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Guided Practice
Demonstrate a subtraction problem: "Here are 5 cubes. Take away 1 cube." Model the steps:
- Display 5 cubes.
- Remove 1 cube.
- Show the 4 remaining cubes.
- Write 5−1=4 on the board. Guide students through additional problems in pairs, using cubes and documenting their steps and solutions.
Independent Practice
Distribute a worksheet with subtraction problems. Students should use their cubes to physically model each problem, remove cubes, count what remains, and write the equation.
Differentiation
Support
- Offer visual aids like number lines.
- Provide targeted guidance in smaller groups for students who need more help.
Extension
- Encourage students to create their own subtraction problems.
- Introduce subtraction in different contexts, like story problems.
Assessment
Use the Assessment Worksheet from the Worksheet Pack to evaluate student progress. Check that students can accurately model subtraction problems with manipulatives and correctly record their equations.
Review and closing
Review key points and solve a couple of problems as a class. Discuss any mistakes and ensure understanding of subtraction concepts.
Misconceptions
- Subtraction involves removing objects, but students must also understand the need to count the remaining objects.
- The order of numbers in a subtraction equation represents the starting amount and the amount removed, which might be reversed by some students.