As I am working with students to build number sense and fact fluency, I find more than a few who can become pretty good with their basic facts. For example, a group of firsties I was working with on facts within 10 were becoming quite adept at getting the correct answer quickly and efficiently. I was so pleased!
But then--we tried a new game. A game where I gave a target number and they had to look at their cards to see if they had two that could make the target. I was dismayed to see that there was a significant hole in their fluency. This skill was really hard for them. We had used number bonds to break apart numbers, we had played the pennies under the cup game, we had discussed decomposing numbers...but when asked to do it in a new context, these guys had a tough time.
So, I began teaching the concept from this angle. Starting with the number and breaking it apart and identifying the addends. We had done it during the beginning of our fact work, but it apparently needed some extra practice. We are continuing to work on this through games and story problems. I am hoping to see it all making a difference!
Have you tried giving your kiddos a target and asking them to come up with a fact that will get it? I'd be interested to hear your results.
Number bonds are a great visual to use when teaching decomposition of numbers or part-part-whole. I have created number bond mats where the kids lay manipulatives out so they can better see the number's decomposition,
You often see number bonds in use for primary grades, but they work well for helping older kids grasp the concepts of expanded form, fractions, multiplication, and division, too! Consider using them to help cement the idea of part-part-whole.
I created a snowflake number bond page that you can use if you wish. Share with someone that you think might benefit.
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