Reveal Math Grade 1, Unit 4: Addition and Subtraction Relationships
In this unit, your child explores how addition and subtraction are connected through fact families. They learn that the equal sign means the same amount as and solve equations with a missing number. This follows the subtracting within 10 unit and leads into strategies for adding numbers within 20.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 4?
- Using fact families, like 3 + 7 = 10 and 10 - 7 = 3, to add and subtract within 10 with speed. Learn more about adding within 20: Adding within 20 · Learn more about subtracting within 20
- Checking equations such as 4 + 2 = 3 + 3 and calling them true or false based on both sides being equal. Learn more: What the equal sign really means
- Finding the missing number in equations like 6 + ? = 10 or 10 - ? = 4. 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
Mia has 7 toy cars. Her friend gives her 2 more toy cars. How many toy cars does Mia have now?
- 8
- 10
- 9
How you can help
- Pick three numbers that go together, like 2, 6, and 8, and ask your child to say all four facts in the family.
- Make a balance with two plates of cereal pieces, 5 + 1 on one and 4 + 2 on the other. Ask if the plates are equal and why.
- Write a mystery fact on the fridge, like 7 + ? = 10, and let your child solve it before dinner.
Where kids can get stuck
- Thinking the equal sign means write the answer next, so 7 = 7 looks wrong to them.
- Calling 3 + 3 = 4 + 2 false, because there is no single answer after the equal sign.
- Using the wrong operation for 10 - ? = 4, answering 14 instead of 6.
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
- fact family
- Addition and subtraction facts made from the same three numbers, like 3, 5, and 8.
- related facts
- An addition fact and a subtraction fact that use the same three numbers.
- equal sign (=)
- A symbol that means both sides show the same amount.
- 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.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with fact families?
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 Reveal Math Grade 1 Unit 4 cover?
Reveal Math Grade 1 Unit 4 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.