Are you looking for strategies to help students who have trouble solving math problems with addition? If so, keep reading.

1. Provide the learner with alternative math assignments. As the learner shows success, slowly introduce more components of the regular tasks.

2. Ask the learner a question when they are most likely to be able to respond successfully.

3. Select a peer to model how to solve addition problems for the learner.

4. Provide information to the learner on a one-to-one basis or use a peer tutor.

5. Create a math facts reference sheet for addition for the learner to use at their desk when solving math problems.

6. Talk about and give the learner a list of words and phrases that indicate an addition operation in word problems (e.g., together, altogether, sum, in all, both, gained, received, total, saved, etc.).

7. Assess the appropriateness of the task to ascertain (a) if the task is too easy, (b) if the task is too complicated, and (c) if the duration of time scheduled for the task is sufficient.

8. Give chances for the learner to apply addition facts in real-life situations (e.g., getting change in the cafeteria, measuring the length of objects in industrial arts, etc.).

9. Get the learner to be a tutor and teach a concept they have learned to another learner.

10. Get the learner to add numbers of objects. Get them to then pair number symbols with the correct number of objects while they solve simple addition problems. As the learner shows success in solving simple addition problems, slowly lessen pairing objects with the number symbols until only number symbols are used.

11. Get the learner to check all math work. Praise the learner for each error they correct.

12. Get the learner to independently solve half of their addition facts/problems each day. Let them use a calculator to solve the rest of the problems as reinforcement.

13. Get the learner to group objects into sets and then add the sets together to acquire a sum.

14. Get the learner to perform timed drills with addition math facts. The learner “competes” against their own best time.

15. Get the learner to solve addition problems by manipulating objects and stating the process(es) involved.

16. Get the learner to talk through the math problems as they solve them to find errors they are making.

17. Get the learner to use a calculator for drill of basic addition facts.

18. Get the learner to use a calculator to reinforce the process of addition. Get the learner to solve several addition problems each day using a calculator.

19. Give the learner a number line attached to their desk to help solve addition problems.

20. Provide all instructions, questions, and explanations in a clear, concise manner and at an appropriate rate for the learner.

21. Consider using Alexa for the Math Classroom.

22. Try gamifying your math lessons.

23. Consider using one of the apps and tools from our many math app lists:

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