Show adding with a picture
Showing one addition problem in several ways is how your child learns what adding really means. When they can show 3 + 2 with fingers, a drawing, and an equation, the plus sign stands for something instead of being a shape to memorize. In 1st grade, that understanding helps with word problems and adding within 20. And it shows up at home whenever your child explains how they know there are 5 forks on the table.
In this video, your child will learn to show adding with a picture.
The lesson stops at each question for your child's answer.
Three problems, each a little harder
Each problem is worked step by step. Your child will solve the last one before Bobby shows how.
Example 1
3 + 2 = ?
Example 2
You have 4 cars. You get 3 more. Which number sentence shows the cars?
Your child's turn
5 + 4 = ?
The three key steps
- 1Start with the first number.
- 2Add the second number.
- 3Count them all!
Mistakes to listen for
- Copying 3 + 2 = 5 correctly, but not being able to show the same problem with objects or a drawing.
- Holding up fingers for each number but not putting them together, so 4 + 1 is answered as "4 and 1" instead of 5.
- Drawing every part of a picture in careful detail, so 4 cats and 2 more takes so long that the adding gets lost.
The lesson shows every step, so your child sees why it works. Read our parent's guide to showing addition in many ways →
Is your child ready to practice what they've learned?
Bobby's Math Club offers unlimited practice for free.
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More Kindergarten Problem Solving, with questions your child answers along the way.
Questions parents ask
Does my child need an account to watch?
No. You can watch this on any device at any time. If your child would like to practice showing addition in many ways, and you'd like parent-friendly reports on your child's progress and growth, you can join Bobby's Math Club for unlimited free practice.
What happens when my child answers a question?
A right answer gets a cheer, and the lesson carries on. If your child isn't sure, they can tap "I don't know yet", and Bobby gives the answer and shows another example. Nothing is scored or stored.
Is this the same lesson that's on YouTube?
Yes. Here, the lesson stops at each question and waits for your child to answer. On YouTube, each question stays on screen for a few seconds, and then the lesson plays on.
Where can I learn more?
There's a short, kid-friendly lesson like this one for every Pre-K to 5th grade math skill, all in our video library. Our parent's guide to showing addition in many ways has more on where kids get stuck and how you can help at home. In the club, your child practices at just the right level, about five minutes a day, and you get parent-friendly reports as they grow. Learn more about how it works →
Practice showing addition in many ways
Questions at your child's level, about five minutes a day, on showing addition in many ways and whatever PK-5 skills they need to develop. Unlimited practice, free forever.
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