Into Math Grade 1, Unit 3: Work with Addition and Subtraction Equations
In this unit, your child learns that the equal sign means the same amount as, not just here comes the answer. They decide whether equations are true or false and find missing numbers anywhere in an equation. This follows the strategies unit and leads into place value, where numbers are built from tens and ones.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 3?
- Deciding whether equations like 6 + 1 = 5 + 2 are true or false by checking that both sides show the same amount. Learn more: What the equal sign really means
- Finding a missing number in any spot, as in 8 + ? = 11 or 5 = ? - 3, and checking the answer. Learn more: Missing numbers, like 8 + ? = 11
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
Is 3 + 4 = 7 true or false?
- True
- False
- Maybe
How you can help
- Make two piles of cereal pieces, 4 + 3 and 5 + 2. Ask your child if the sides are equal and how they know without counting each piece.
- Write a true or false puzzle on a sticky note, like 7 = 7 + 0 or 10 = 5 + 4, and let your child mark it and explain.
- Hide a number in a fact while waiting somewhere: "Something plus 6 makes 13. What is it?" Then let your child stump you back.
Where kids can get stuck
- Writing the answer right after the equal sign, filling in 4 + 5 = ? + 2 with 9.
- Calling 8 = 3 + 5 false, because the answer seems to be on the wrong side.
- Adding the two numbers they see in 5 = ? - 3, instead of finding the number that, minus 3, leaves 5.
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
- equal sign (=)
- A symbol that means both sides show the same amount.
- equation
- A number sentence with an equal sign, like 6 + 2 = 8.
- true
- An equation is true when both sides of the equal sign match.
- false
- An equation is false when the two sides of the equal sign do not match.
- unknown
- The missing number in a problem, often shown as a box or a question mark.
- sum
- The answer when you add numbers together.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with the equal sign?
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.
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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 Into Math Grade 1 Unit 3 cover?
Into Math Grade 1 Unit 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.