Max Maths, Year 1, Try it, Addition using number bonds

In the 'Max Maths' textbook for Year 1, students are encouraged to explore the concept of addition through the use of number bonds on workbook (WB) pages 64 to 67. The exercises are designed to help young learners understand how different pairs of numbers can be combined to make a total sum. For instance, in the activity "Make 9 with number bonds," children are presented with the challenge of finding pairs of numbers that add up to 9. This could involve a simple illustration such as a group of eggs, prompting the question, "How many eggs are there altogether?" The children are then expected to fill in the blanks to complete the equation, such as "___ and ___ make 9."

Further reinforcing the concept, the workbook offers an activity titled "Make your own number bonds," where students are given the freedom to create their own sets of number bonds. This task is divided into two parts, labelled (a) and (b), each with a pair of blank spaces for the students to fill in with numbers that add up to a particular total. For example, they might need to find two numbers that, when added together, equal a given number. This exercise not only strengthens their understanding of addition and number bonds but also encourages creativity and independent thinking in forming these mathematical relationships.