Embedded Files
Counting Rhythmically: What is it?
Counting rhythmically is an early multiplication strategy where students use additive thinking to arrive at the answer. Less commonly, it may be used for division as students count backwards.
Overview
In counting rhythmically, students are still counting by ones but they are able to unitize the group and emphasize the last number in the set when counting.
They often directly model this through manipulatives, drawing pictures or counting on their fingers. Students emphasize the final count in each group. 1,2,3,4,5 6, 7, 8,9, 10...
You may also see students doing this, while tracking on their fingers.
Counting Rhythmically FINAL.mp4
Supporting Students Using Counting Rhythmically
Students need the opportunity to experience multiplication through hands-on experiences first. In order to build an understanding, they need the chance to physically make equal groups with manipulatives and to count them. Providing these hands-on experiences helps students build proficiency with unitizing, which is the idea that objects can be seen as one group at the same time as they are seen as a group of objects that can be each counted individually. This concept is foundational for moving to a more abstract understanding of multiplication.
Where to Next?
Once students are counting rhythmically with ease, educators can encourage a shift toward skip counting or repeated addition.
Using Concrete Tools
Using Concrete Tools
When students are exploring the early stages of division, the use of concrete tools is essential. Providing as much hands on opportunity will support students to deepen their divisional understanding.
Looking to learn more? Check out the recorded session!
Page updated
Report abuse