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Addition Puzzles & Giveaway Winners!

It seems as if K-2 teachers are ALWAYS working on addition.  It's understandable.  It's a fundamental concept that kiddos must master.  Are you looking for a new way to help students master their addition facts?  Then, check out my latest idea...
First, have students choose a number (or assign #s to kiddos).  This number will be the SUM for all addition problems in their math puzzle.  Next, have students use manipulatives and a part-part-whole mat to come up with eight number sentences for their chosen sum.  
Have students record their equations on scrap paper or in their math journals.  I'd suggest CHECKING students' number sentences before letting them write on puzzle pieces.  =)
The next step is to have students write their sum on the center puzzle piece.  Next, write an equation (without the sum) on each puzzle piece.  Then have some fun coloring the pieces!  
I used these pre-made puzzle cut-outs from Trend.  They are pretty cheap, and I like that they are perforated so kiddos do not have to cut.  If you'd rather, TpT has plenty of blank puzzles you can download for free, such as this one by Amy Frank.   

I'd recommend having students label the backs of their puzzles pieces with their initials or numbers.  {This will be helpful for a self-check later if the puzzles are added to a math center.}

After students have created their puzzles, you can combine a few puzzles in a baggie to create a challenging math activity for independent practice or math centers/stations.

Reasons I think these Addition Puzzles are FABULOUS:
1.  It's not a worksheet.
2.  Kids get to create their own!  (Ownership=Engagement)
3.  Problem Solving/Critical Thinking while practicing basic facts
4.  Encourages use of manipulatives
5.  They are fun!!  Kids like puzzles!!
6.  Opportunity for self-check

Other Ideas/Suggestions:
-Subtraction Puzzles 
-Mixed Operations: Addition & Subtraction facts
-Fact Family Puzzles (4-5 piece puzzles)
-Multiplication/Division Puzzles

On another note, THANK YOU to everyone who participated in my Ringing in the New Year Giveaway!  It was a huge success.  Here are the lucky winners:
Thanks for stopping by today!  Leave me some love in the comments section if you have some time! :)

4 comments

  1. Thanks for the tag! I'm glad that you like the puzzle. :)

    Take care,
    Amy
    Turtley Loving Teaching

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  2. This is fantastic! I have always wanted to use our puzzle die cut but could never think of anything really good to use it for. I can't wait to do this activity with my kids and then use them in my math tubs for guided math!
    Amber
    Mrs. Laue's Littles

    ReplyDelete
  3. Really like this idea. Thanks x

    ReplyDelete
  4. Really like this idea. Thanks x

    ReplyDelete