Regrouping

Yes, the time has come. We are reviewing addition with regrouping. Although it may feel like torture to some children, they are doing quite well. We are even venturing into regrouping with 3 digit numbers...

As you are working with your children, remember that math instruction has changed since we were in elementary school. You probably know regrouping as carrying.
"5 + 9 = 14. Put down the 4, carry the 1..." Children can still solve addition problems this way. The only thing different for that method, is that we call it regrouping. They don't carry the one, they regroup the 10 (or the hundred).

You may have noticed children using other methods of solving however. They can even start in the tens place instead of the ones place! For example:

57 + 49=

Here's a process many children will use: 50+40=90, 7+9=16, 90+10=100, 100+6=106

Although this may seem complicated because you're not used to it, it's actually giving children the opportunity to use their number sense, and to use what they do know to solve what they don't.

Here's a three digit problem (a little trickier):

378 + 496=

300+400=700, 70+90=160, 700 + 100= 800, 800+60=860, 8+6=14. 860+10=870, 870+4=874

Remember, either process (or many I haven't mentioned) are acceptable as long as the answers are accurate and the children can explain their thinking.

Please don't hesitate to write or ask if you have any comments or questions! :o)M