Addition and Subtraction - Add 2 four digit numbers (more than one exchange) - Planning

In a Year 4 mathematics lesson centred on addition and subtraction, students are tasked with adding two four-digit numbers, incorporating more than one exchange (also known as regrouping). This lesson aligns with the National Curriculum objectives, which include mastering formal written methods of column addition and subtraction, estimating and checking answers through inverse operations, and solving two-step problems. The lesson introduces key vocabulary such as 'exchange', 'total', and 'place value', among others, to ensure students are familiar with the concepts and terminology. The use of resources such as place value counters and grids, worksheets, and a presentation supports the learning process. Students begin by reviewing previous knowledge, discussing the concept of exchange, and then move on to complete addition problems, starting with the ones column and progressing through to the thousands column, while being encouraged to explain their reasoning and the exchanges they make.

Throughout the lesson, students compare different methods of representing numbers, such as place value counters and numeric columns, to understand their relationship and the mechanics of exchanging during addition. The lesson is structured to cater to various levels of understanding, offering differentiated questions that challenge students to make multiple exchanges within a problem. The plenary session, which includes a reflective 'Give me five' activity, prompts students to articulate what they have learned, the skills they have utilised, and any challenges they encountered. This reflection helps consolidate their understanding and reinforces the importance of correct place value and column alignment. The lesson is designed to build confidence and proficiency in adding complex numbers, guiding students from working towards the expected level to achieving greater depth in their mathematical skills.