A complete first-grade math lesson focused on solving word problems within 20 using safari-themed scenarios. Students use ten-frames and counters to visualize 'joining' and 'separating' actions to master addition and subtraction.
Scaffolded Support: For students struggling with larger numbers, have them work strictly within 10 first. Highlight key word actions with physical color-coded highlighter markers on the worksheet.
Extension Target: Ask advanced students to write their own safari-themed math stories where the missing part or initial whole is unknown (e.g., "There were some lions... then 5 ran away.").
Student Worksheet Answer Key
Quest 1: Giraffes (Page 1)
Action: Joining (Addition)
Equation: 7 + 6 = 13
Answer: 13 giraffes
Model: 7 counters in first frame, then 6 in second frame. Move 3 to make a full ten.
Quest 2: Cheetahs (Page 1)
Action: Separating (Subtraction)
Equation: 14 - 6 = 8
Answer: 8 cheetahs
Model: 10 counters in first frame, 4 in second. Cross out all 4 in second frame, plus 2 from first.
Quest 3: Meerkats (Page 2)
Action: Joining (Addition)
Equation: 11 + 5 = 16
Answer: 16 meerkats
Model: 10 counters in first frame, 1 in second. Draw 5 more in second frame to get 16.
Quest 4: Hippos (Page 2)
Action: Separating (Subtraction)
Equation: 16 - 8 = 8
Answer: 8 hippos
Model: 10 counters in first frame, 6 in second. Cross out all 6 in second frame, plus 2 from first.
Campfire Reflection Rubric
Proficient (3 pts): Expresses that filling a ten-frame first makes counting easier because you can just "add onto 10" (e.g. 10 + 6 is 16). Developing (2 pts): Draws a diagram or states it is easier to see, but cannot clearly verbalize the "counting on from 10" mathematical structure.
