Standard: 4.NBT.B4 – Fluently add and subtract multi-digit whole numbers using the standard algorithm.
Grade level: Grade 4
Subject: Mathematics
Domain: Number & Operations in Base Ten
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on students becoming fluent in adding and subtracting multi-digit whole numbers using the standard algorithm. Mastery of this skill is crucial as it forms the foundation for more advanced arithmetic operations and problem-solving in later grades. Students should have a strong grasp of basic addition and subtraction facts, and understand place value up to the thousands place. They should also have experience with adding and subtracting smaller numbers.
Mastering this standard prepares students for more complex arithmetic operations such as multi-digit multiplication and division, and problem-solving involving fractions and decimals.
Common Misconception 1
A common misconception is that students may incorrectly align digits by place value when adding or subtracting. This is incorrect because it leads to inaccurate results.
Intervention 1
Using graph paper can help students align numbers correctly by place value, ensuring each digit is in the correct column.
Common Misconception 2
Another misconception is that students may forget to carry over or borrow correctly. This results in incorrect sums or differences.
Intervention 2
Step-by-step guided practice can help students understand when and how to carry over or borrow, reinforcing the correct procedure.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should be comfortable with basic addition and subtraction facts, understand place value up to thousands, and have experience with adding and subtracting smaller numbers.
Subsequent Knowledge
Students will develop skills in more complex operations such as multiplication and division of multi-digit numbers, and will begin to solve problems involving fractions and decimals.
Instructional Activities
- Use place value charts to practice aligning digits.
- Solve real-world problems involving multi-digit addition and subtraction.
- Play educational games that involve adding and subtracting large numbers.
- Work on word problems that require multi-digit addition and subtraction.
