Em2 g2 m1 TD Familymath
Em2 g2 m1 TD Familymath
Em2 g2 m1 TD Familymath
Topic D
FAMILY MATH
Solve Compare Problems by Using the Ruler as a Number Line
Dear Family,
Your student is learning to use a number line to add. They see a number line on a familiar
tool—a measuring tape. The number line can help them count and make hops up and back as
they solve problems. Your student looks for benchmark numbers (10, 20, 30, 40) on the number
line. Benchmark numbers help your student add and subtract more efficiently.
Your student also uses tape diagrams to represent word problems. Flexibility is encouraged as
they solve in a way that makes sense to them. Flexible thinking allows your student to notice
the relationship between addition and subtraction and discover that different equations can
be used to solve the same problem.
– 10 – 10 –4
At-Home Activity
Benchmark Math
Have your student practice using benchmark numbers to compare numbers. For example, “Use
a benchmark number to find the difference between 26 and 33.” Your student can start at
26 and add 4 to get to 30 and then add 3 more to get to 33. Or they may show 4 fingers to
add 4 all at once to get to 30 and then use their fingers to track counting on: 31, 32, 33. Your
student may also draw a number line or tape diagram to show their thinking.
33
30
31 32