The sea of zeros...adding and subtracting integers with colored counters!

Adding and subtracting integers with counters is such a fantastic idea. The woman in this video uses little pieces of paper as counters, which works also. She puts numerous positive-negative counter pairs together to create a "Sea of Zeros" that students can access when doing integer addition and subtraction.

This blogger places the "Sea of Zeros" on an organized "work mat" template for students. The work mat also includes 1) a place for positive and negative counters not in zero pairs and 2) a number line. Students can see clearly that the result is the same whether obtained through number line or integer counters. I really like the organized format:

Unfortunately, I haven't had the opportunity to watch this method in action while subbing. I've gotten to teach equivalent fractions (multiple times), so hopefully this will be covered in future chapters so I can discuss this some.

Subbing has been challenging. Fortunately, I was able to sub in the same second grade class for four days. It was so helpful getting to know the students. It's near to impossible to run a classroom without knowing student names. On the first day, I used a lot of "Hey buddy," and "Dear, can you ____." The third day was the best. I used a "magic wand" to give out points for attentiveness, kindness, respect, etc. and take away points for talking out of turn, being off talk, disrespect, etc. Whole class points were available, as well, for outstanding behavior. These were exciting to give.

I subbed in Kindergarten again, although I had previously decided Kindergarten wasn't for me. This experience was better but wasn't without its share of challenges. Math time consisted of counting songs 1-100 and numbers in the teens. Love the energy these little guys produce.

That's all for now! Keep those hearts and minds a'bloomin'!

-Miss Elizabeth