Understanding the Break Apart Strategy
The break apart strategy is a form of decomposition, where numbers are separated into smaller, easier-to-work-with components. This approach helps students visualize the subtraction process, making it less intimidating and more intuitive. By breaking numbers apart, children can focus on simpler calculations, which ultimately leads to a more profound understanding of subtraction as a whole.
How the Break Apart Strategy Works
To use the break apart strategy for subtraction, follow these steps:
1. Identify the numbers: Determine the numbers you want to subtract.
2. Break apart the larger number: Decompose the larger number into parts that are easier to subtract.
3. Subtract the parts: Perform the subtraction on the separate components.
4. Combine the results: If necessary, combine the results to find the final answer.
For example, to solve the problem \( 53 - 27 \), a student might break apart \( 53 \) into \( 50 \) and \( 3 \). They would then subtract \( 20 \) from \( 50 \) and \( 7 \) from \( 3 \) separately, leading to:
- \( 50 - 20 = 30 \)
- \( 3 - 7 = -4 \)
Then, they would combine the results: \( 30 - 4 = 26 \).
This method allows students to approach subtraction with a clearer mindset, as they can focus on smaller numbers.
Benefits of the Break Apart Strategy
The break apart strategy offers several advantages, particularly for young learners. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Enhanced Understanding: Breaking numbers apart helps students grasp the concept of place value and how numbers relate to one another.
- Improved Accuracy: By simplifying the subtraction process, students are less likely to make calculation errors, leading to more accurate results.
- Boosted Confidence: As students become more comfortable with the break apart method, their confidence in their mathematical abilities grows.
- Flexible Thinking: This strategy encourages students to think flexibly about numbers, which is a vital skill in mathematics.
Who Can Benefit from the Break Apart Strategy?
The break apart strategy is designed primarily for young children, particularly those in elementary school. However, it can also be beneficial for:
- Students with Learning Differences: Children who struggle with traditional methods may find this strategy easier to understand and apply.
- English Language Learners: The visual aspect of breaking apart numbers can help ELL students grasp mathematical concepts without relying solely on language skills.
- Struggling Learners: Students who have difficulty with computation can use the break apart method to improve their subtraction skills.
Implementing the Break Apart Strategy in the Classroom
Teachers and parents can introduce the break apart strategy in various ways. Here are some effective methods:
1. Use Visual Aids
Visual aids such as number lines, ten frames, and base-ten blocks can help students understand how to break apart numbers. For example:
- Number Lines: Show how to jump back in increments that make sense (like tens and ones).
- Ten Frames: Help students visualize how many items are in each group, facilitating easier subtraction.
2. Incorporate Games
Games that involve subtraction can make learning fun and engaging. Here are a few ideas:
- Subtraction Bingo: Create Bingo cards with answers to subtraction problems, encouraging students to use the break apart strategy to find the solutions.
- Card Games: Use a deck of cards where students draw two cards to create a subtraction problem, then break apart the larger number to solve it.
3. Practice with Real-World Examples
Using real-world scenarios can help students relate subtraction to their everyday lives. Examples include:
- Shopping: If a toy costs $45 and a student has $60, how much change will they get back? Break apart $60 into $50 and $10 to make the calculation easier.
- Cooking: When a recipe calls for 3 cups of flour but you only have 2 cups, how much more do you need? This can be approached by breaking apart the whole number.
4. Provide Worksheets and Practice Problems
Worksheets that focus on the break apart strategy can give students the practice they need to master subtraction. Include problems that require breaking apart, along with step-by-step instructions on how to approach them.
Challenges and Considerations
While the break apart strategy is effective, there are some challenges to consider:
- Initial Resistance: Some students may initially resist breaking apart numbers, preferring traditional methods. It’s essential to encourage them by highlighting the benefits of the strategy.
- Understanding Place Value: Students must have a grasp of place value to use this method effectively. Teachers should ensure that foundational concepts are solid before introducing break apart.
- Different Learning Styles: Not all students learn the same way. While many may thrive with the break apart strategy, others might benefit from different approaches. It's crucial to adapt teaching strategies to meet individual needs.
Conclusion
The Go Math Break Apart to Subtract strategy provides a valuable tool for teaching subtraction in a way that is accessible and engaging for students. By breaking numbers into manageable parts, learners can develop a deeper understanding of the mathematical concepts involved. With the right implementation strategies, including visual aids, games, and real-world applications, educators and parents can foster a positive and confident approach to mathematics in young learners. As students become more comfortable with subtraction through the break apart method, they will build a solid foundation for future mathematical learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'break apart to subtract' strategy in Go Math?
The 'break apart to subtract' strategy involves breaking down numbers into smaller, more manageable parts to make subtraction easier. For example, if subtracting 27 from 53, you can break 27 into 20 and 7, subtracting each part separately.
How does the break apart method help students in math?
This method helps students visualize subtraction and understand place value better, making it easier to solve problems without relying solely on memorization.
Can you provide an example of using break apart to subtract with two-digit numbers?
Sure! To subtract 34 from 76, break apart 34 into 30 and 4. First, subtract 30 from 76, which gives 46, then subtract 4 from 46, leading to a final answer of 42.
What grade levels typically learn the break apart to subtract strategy?
The break apart to subtract strategy is commonly taught in early elementary grades, particularly in 1st and 2nd grades, as part of foundational math skills.
Are there any visual aids to help with the break apart strategy?
Yes, visual aids such as number lines, base-ten blocks, or charts can help students understand and apply the break apart method more effectively.
How can parents support their children in using the break apart to subtract strategy at home?
Parents can practice this method with their children by using everyday objects for counting, encouraging them to break down numbers during homework, and playing math games that reinforce the concept.
What are the benefits of teaching break apart to subtract compared to traditional subtraction methods?
Teaching break apart to subtract can enhance comprehension, promote mental math skills, and foster flexibility in problem-solving, making it a valuable approach compared to traditional methods.
Is the break apart strategy applicable for larger numbers?
Yes, the break apart strategy can be applied to larger numbers as well. For instance, to subtract 245 from 500, you can break 245 into 200, 40, and 5, subtracting each part sequentially.
What common mistakes do students make when using the break apart strategy?
Common mistakes include forgetting to account for all parts after breaking them apart, miscalculating during subtraction, or not aligning numbers correctly in multi-step problems.
