-10 + 5 = -5
But, what if kids are tasked with adding numbers such as:
- 4 + 8 =
To solve this problem, I tell kids to use the commutative property of addition.
-4 + 8 = 8 + -4 = 8 - 4
You can turn this problem into a first grade problem!
Tune in next week for tips on how to teach minus a negative number.
If you are interested in a resource for teaching middle school math, check this out!
Monday Music Moves Me
This week is all about songs that tell stories, so here is the ultimate classic in that department.
American Pie, by Don McLean
This musical number tells a farewell story to the 50s and 60s and how music died with the plane crash that killed Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly, and the Big Bopper. The music is filled with hidden messages involving the Vietnam War and Jackie Kennedy, "the widowed bride" in some accounts, while others believe the song is referring to Buddy Holly's pregnant wife who miscarried. One could spend the year analyzing the story of American Pie, but I'd rather just listen to it.
Next up is Paul Simon with Me and Julio Down at the School Yard.
This is the story of a couple of kids in trouble for the unknown actions down at the school yard. Simon purposely kept the actions vague; but whatever it was, Mama and Papa didn't like it!
This last song is one I had to post because I believe history has gotten it all wrong with blaming poor Mrs. O'Leary and her cow for the Chicago Fire of 1871. I've written a different version of this story that you can purchase at my TpT Store.