Counting On Addition Strategy

Counting on is a strategy for solving simple addition problems in which students start at the larger number and count on from there to find the sum. For example, to find the sum of 3 and 4, one might start at three and count on, saying “4, 5, 6”. 

This early strategy is the beginning of a student’s journey into more complex additive strategies outlined in the National Numeracy Progression.

This presentation has three sections:

• Using a Number Line to Count On
• Using Your Fingers to Count On
• Counting on In Your Head

Through this activity, students will learn multiple ways to practise the addition strategy of counting on.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to support your maths lessons. 

If you have a mixture of above and below-level learners, check out these suggestions for keeping students on track with the concepts: 

🆘 Support Struggling Students

Help students who need help understanding the concepts by giving them concrete materials to count with as you progress through the presentation.

➕ Challenge Fast Finishers

Extend students by encouraging them to give examples of when they believe it is best to use the counting-on strategy.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PowerPoint or Google Slides version of this resource.

This resource was created by Kendall Britnell, a Teach Starter Collaborator.