Montessori Math Number Rod Addition

This post include a lesson on Montessori Math Number Rod Addition. Montessori Small Number Rods are a favorite of preschoolers because the material is familiar and they get to do something different with it. This lesson comes at the end of a child's Early Childhood Montessori life. The Montessori Math Lesson with the Number Rods is within the area of “Math Facts” or “Memorization”.

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Invite child to do something new with the number rods.

Montessori Math Number Rod Addition

Ask him to spread a mat and build the stair with the number rods.

Separate the ten rod from the others: “Do you remember what this is? Yes, it is ten. Let’s see if there are other ways to make ten.”

Take the nine rod and place it against the ten rod: “What do we need to make this rod ten?” Allow the child the time to discover the answer.

Place the one rod in position and note that 9 + 1 = 10.

Have the child write this answer in his equation booklet.

See if the child can find a way to make ten with the eight rod.

• Continue in this manner until he has discovered all possible ways of making ten.
• Next, ask the child explore to find all the ways of making 9. Get him started if necessary by placing the eight rod against the 9 rod and asking what he needs to make it nine.
• Over time give the child challenge cards that request he make combinations of eight, seven, six, five and so on.  Make sure he records his work in a “Ways of making…” booklet.

Marnie