Using the Strip Diagram to Add Numbers!

The following set of match up cards has been designed to engage students in practicing addition within 1,000 using the bar model (also known as tape diagrams or strip diagram). The bar model provides a visual representation of the relationship between quantities and can be a powerful tool for understanding mathematical operations. 

Using these match up cards – students will need to find the matching answer for each of the strip diagram cards. 

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

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

In addition to individual student work time, use this match up activity to enhance learning through guided maths groups, whole class lessons, or remote learning assignments. 

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 allowing them to use physical manipulatives. Additionally, provide access to previous assignments, as well as posters and anchor charts for students to recall past lessons.

➕ Challenge Fast Finishers

Have the students also write down what the number sentence would be. Or, have them flip the numbers around to show the turnaround.

👋 Exit Ticket 

Use these cards as a formative assessment after your lesson. Pick a random assortment of cards and project them on the board for the whole class to see. Students can record their answers on a sheet of paper, sticky note, or their notebook. 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. A recording sheet and answer key are also included with this download. 

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

To keep the task cards out of pockets or under desks, punch a hole in the corner of each to place them on a binder ring. 

Sustainability Tip: Print a few recording sheets on cardstock and slip them into dry-erase sleeves. Students can record their answers with a whiteboard marker, then erase and reuse them.  

This resource was created by Cassandra Friesen, a teacher in Colorado and a Teach Starter Collaborator.