Teaching article
Number-line addition: what does each jump mean?
Connect the starting value, jump size and landing value with a concrete model.
A row of arcs can look correct while leaving the strategy unexplained. Ask the learner to identify the starting point, direction and value of each jump, then connect the endpoint to the original problem.
Starting at 6 and moving 4 steps forward lands on 10.
Read the drawing as a record of thinking
Make the starting point and jump meaning explicit. A number-line drawing is useful only when the learner can explain the movements.
Mark the starting number. Move the stated number of unit steps. Label the landing value.
Count intervals moved, not both endpoint labels.
Which feature represents the added amount? Use a finger or large movable arrow.
Resources
- Maths Puzzle Generator — Choose arithmetic or missing-number questions only when they match the number relationship being explored.
Further reading
Read next
- Doubles facts with two equal groups underneath them
- The equals sign connects equal amounts on both sides
- Division by grouping: how many groups can we make?
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