Brian Boley, a college and high school educator, reminds that when it comes to math the basics are critical. Proper format and neatness of equations help children succeed at grasping concepts and following the step-by-step processes that lead to a right answer. Do not attempt to give partial credit. Boley cautions that if a child arrives at the wrong answer then they do not yet understand the process.
Double digit math starts with presenting equations in the vertical column format. Each double digit number is called an addend, and they are written one above the other over a horizontal line with a plus or minus sign positioned to the left of the bottom addend. Draw three vertical lines through the equation to distinguish the ones and tens columns. The first line is drawn to the right of the addends, the second is drawn between the ones and tens and the third to the left of the addends.
The traditional means to teach regrouping is by writing the problem in a vertical column format with the vertical dividing lines. Place a scrap of paper over the digits in the tens column to hide those numbers, allowing the child to focus on the ones column as a single digit math problem. When the sum is greater than nine, have the child to write the numeral that would normally go below the horizontal line in the tens column just above the scrap of paper. Tell the child the reason for carrying the number up to this higher position is so that it can be added with the other numbers in the tens position and not be forgotten. Scoot the scrap paper to the right to reveal the tens column and hide the ones column and remove big math problem intimidation.
Utilize the traditional method with graph paper for faster equation writing or for printed worksheets. Enhance graph paper worksheets with color to improve memory and comprehension. In a graphics program such as Photoshop or GIMP, use digital graph paper as a page background. Overlay a variety of vertical column equations granting each digit its own square in the graph paper. Highlight the squares that make up the tens and ones columns behind each problem with two different soft pastels to distinguish the groupings. Highlight the square above the numeral in the top tens position to show this is an important part of the problem. Use two different colors such as red and blue to distinguish the numerals of each addend for the ones and tens position.
Word problems engage the child's right brain processes to enhance comprehension while relating math to real life situations. Create word problems or download worksheets from websites such as SuperTeacherWorksheets.com that have word problems specific for double digit regrouping. Not all worksheets include the problem in a vertical column format. Always recreate the problem so that the child can solve it using the traditional method in addition to hearing or reading the word problem.