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Addition (Count on 1, 2 or 3)


Videos and songs to help Kindergarten and Grade 1 kids learn to relate counting to addition and subtraction (e.g., by counting on 2 to add 2).


Common Core: 1.OA.5

Learning Targets:

  • I can add by counting all, counting on, and recognizing the +1 means the next number and the +2 means the next next number in the counting sequence.
  • I can use addition counting strategies ( e.g., Counting All, Counting On, Counting On from the Larger Number) to solve problems

Related Topics:
More Lessons for Grade 1

Common Core for Grade 1


Addition Strategies: Count-on 1's





Addition Strategies: Count-on 2's


Addition Strategies: Count-on 3's




Count on 1 Addition
These are the very first number facts to teach students, to introduce them to the idea of memorizing basic addition facts. Note that we use a counting strategy only for adding 1, 2 or 3, after which we have other strategies for addition facts.


Learn the Count On 2 Addition Facts
This video is aimed at students who are learning the count on 2 addition facts, using a number line or a ten frame to help them to visualise the facts.

After practising these facts for a while, children should be able to picture the numbers in their minds and say the answers without having to draw "hops" on the number line or use counters on the ten frame.




Counting on 1, 2, or 3 Addition Facts
Counting is an elementary mathematical process, and could in theory be used to work out any whole number operation. However, it should only be taught to children for adding 1, 2, or 3. Beyond 3, we use other, more sensible strategies that will be faster.
Adding small amounts can easily be illustrated using ten frames or number lines, both of which are recommended.


Addition by Counting On



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