Eureka Math² Grade 1, Module 3: Properties of Operations to Make Easier Problems
In this unit, first graders use properties of addition, like adding in any order or grouping, to turn hard problems into easier ones. They make ten, use doubles, and add three numbers in story problems with totals up to 20. It builds on how adding and subtracting relate from the last unit, and next they compare and combine lengths.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Module 3?
- Solving story problems within 20 by choosing a strategy, like making ten, that makes the numbers easier. Learn more: Adding and subtracting story problems within 20
- Adding three numbers in a story, finding a pair that makes ten first, as in 4 + 9 + 6. Learn more: Story problems that add three numbers
- Changing the order or grouping of addends to make a problem easier, such as 8 + 7 = 8 + 2 + 5. Learn more: Adding in any order to make it easier
- Adding and subtracting within 20 with make a ten and doubles plus one, such as 6 + 7 = 6 + 6 + 1. Learn more about adding within 20: Adding within 20 · Learn more about subtracting within 20
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
I had some toy cars. My friend gave me 3 more cars. Now I have 8 cars in total. How many toy cars did I have at first?
- 3
- 5
- 8
How you can help
- Count three groups at dinner, like 4 carrots, 9 peas, and 6 crackers, and ask which two numbers make 10 together. Then add the rest.
- Play double-plus-one on a walk: say a near double, like 6 + 7, and ask your child which double helps. Then switch roles.
- Lay out 8 spoons and 7 forks. Move 2 forks over to make 10 with the spoons, then ask how many forks are left and what the total is.
Where kids can get stuck
- Adding three numbers strictly left to right and missing the ten hidden in 4 + 9 + 6.
- Making ten in 8 + 7 but then forgetting the 5 that's left over.
- Starting from scratch on 6 + 7 instead of using the double 6 + 6 = 12.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- addend
- A number being added, like 3 and 4 in 3 + 4.
- total
- How many there are altogether.
- make a ten
- Split a number to fill a ten first, like 8 + 5 = 8 + 2 + 3.
- doubles
- A number added to itself, like 6 + 6.
- doubles plus one
- A double with one more added, like 6 + 7 = 6 + 6 + 1.
- order
- Which number comes first. In adding, it doesn't change the total.
- strategy
- A plan or smart way to solve a problem.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with addition strategies?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
Join the club
Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does Eureka Math² Grade 1 Module 3 cover?
Eureka Math² Grade 1 Module 3 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.