Mathematics — Number Concept

Subtopic: Addition (Age 6)

What is addition? Addition means putting groups together. We use + to show adding and = to show the answer.

Simple visual example

We write the number sentence: 2 + 3 = 5

How to add (easy steps)

1. Count the first group. (for example 2)
2. Count the second group. (for example 3)
3. Put them together and count all. (2 and 3 together make 5)

Number line help

Start at the first number, then jump forward the second number. Example: 2 + 3 — start at 2, jump 3 steps to land on 5.

Try these (use stones, maize kernels, mangoes…)

1. 1 + 2 = ?
2. 2 + 2 = ?
3. 3 + 1 = ?
4. 4 + 1 = ?
5. 2 + 4 = ?

Tips for parents and teachers (Kenyan classroom)

• Use real objects children touch: stones, seeds, maize kernels, mangoes, or bottle tops.
• Let each child show the answer with fingers or drawing dots on paper.
• Sing counting songs while adding (for example: “one, two, three — now we have three!”).
• Use the number line on the floor with chalk — children jump the steps.

Good work! Practice adding small numbers every day. Addition helps us to count and share.