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G.1 Addition up to 10 with stars

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Understanding Addition with Stars

Addition means putting things together to find a total. Using stars helps children see how two amounts combine into one.

Example:
  • Show 3 stars and add 2 more stars → Total is 5 stars.
  • 5 stars and 4 stars together → Count: 1–9 → Total is 9 stars.
Note

Use star stickers, drawings, or printed cards to create visual groups for counting. It builds strong number sense.

Counting Stars to Add

Children can count each star one by one to find the total. This builds careful counting habits and supports early problem-solving.

Try This:
  • Count 4 stars, then 3 more → Count all together: 1 to 7 → Total is 7.
  • 2 stars and 5 more → Total is 7 stars.
Note

Model how to point to each star while counting. Slow, careful pointing supports accuracy and focus.

Using Fingers and Stars

Fingers are helpful for children who are learning to add. Pairing fingers with stars gives them two ways to check their answers.

Try This:
  • Show 5 stars. Hold up 5 fingers. Add 2 more stars and fingers. Count all → Total is 7.
  • 3 stars + 4 fingers → Total is 7.
Note

Encourage children to switch between fingers and star images. This helps them understand numbers in different ways.

Matching Equations to Star Groups

Each group of stars can match a number sentence. Children can learn to write or read simple equations from what they see.

Example:
  • 6 stars + 2 stars → Write: 6 + 2 = 8
  • Draw 1 star and add 4 more → Equation: 1 + 4 = 5
Note

Let children create their own star drawings. Then ask them to say or write the matching number sentence.

Comparing Star Sets

Children can compare two sets of stars and decide which has more, less, or the same. This strengthens their understanding of numbers and builds number sense.

Try This:
  • Set A: 3 stars, Set B: 5 stars → Which is more? → 5 is more.
  • Both sets have 4 stars → They are equal.
Note

Ask students to explain their thinking. “How do you know which is more?” helps them think and speak mathematically.

Practice Through Star Stories

Stories with stars make addition fun and relatable. Children imagine real-life situations where numbers come together.

Example:
  • “You see 2 stars. Then 6 more stars twinkle. How many stars now?” → 8
  • “There are 4 stars in the sky. 3 more appear. How many in all?” → 7
Note

Use finger puppets, toys, or pictures to act out simple addition stories. This helps visual and active learners.

Building Fluency with Stars

Children become fluent by seeing, saying, and solving the same kinds of problems again and again. Stars help them build speed and confidence.

Supportive Activities:
  • Flash card: Show 5 stars and 4 stars → Ask: “How many stars in all?” → 9
  • Sing: “Twinkle twinkle 3 bright stars, then 3 more come…” → Total is 6 stars.
Note

Use songs, movement, or drawing games that repeat addition facts. Repetition helps make math automatic and fun.

Tips for Parents and Teachers

  • Use star-shaped stickers or counters to make addition sets fun and visual.
  • Start with numbers 0–5, and move up to 10 as your child gains confidence.
  • Practice “how many in all?” during cleanup, snack time, or reading.
  • Give praise and celebrate correct answers to build math confidence.
Helpful Tips:
  • Play “Find the Total” by hiding stars under cups and revealing two sets.
  • Use flashlights or drawings of stars to practice night sky-themed math.
  • Read star-themed books and ask, “If we see 4 stars and then 3 more, how many now?”
Note

Make math a part of everyday life. Children learn best when they see math in action during play and routines.

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