When it comes to teaching complex math concepts to children, it can be a challenge. One of the most difficult topics to explain to young students is addition with regrouping. But with the help of American Sign Language (ASL), it can be easier to present the concept in a way they can understand.
Regrouping, or “carrying,” is when a number in the ones column needs to be added to the next highest column, such as the tens. If a child adds four plus six, which equals ten, the one left over needs to be placed in the tens column. This process can be confusing for young minds and more difficult for them to remember.
To help them understand, it’s important to make regrouping engaging. Using ASL, teachers and parents can demonstrate the concept in an easy and fun way. It’s important to start with two-digit coins, allowing students to count on their fingers and move their hands as they add. This will help them learn how to regroup with two-digit numbers.
Once students understand the concept with coins, teachers and parents can move on to two-digit numbers. Start by having the student put the larger number in their right hand and the other in the left. Then, having them add the corresponding digits in their fingers and move the one in their right hand to the next column when they reach 10.
Additionally, having the student repeat this process with the other digits in both numbers until finish addition. Going through this motion is helpful for them to visualize the process, making it easier to remember.
As students get comfortable with addition with regrouping using ASL, they can practice with different two- and three-digit numbers. They can even challenge themselves by using larger numbers and taking a break when their hands get tired.
Ultimately, using ASL addition with regrouping can be a game changer for kids trying to learn this difficult math concept. It’s an effective, fun way for teachers, parents, and students to work through the concept and get them on their way to becoming math champions.
