Dot Game (Place Value Addition)

The Dot Game bridges golden bead work and standard written addition. Children use dots instead of beads, approaching abstract notation.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Mathematics
• Learning area: Operations
• Level: Ages 5-6

Objectives

• Perform written addition with carrying
• Understand place value columns
• Bridge concrete to abstract operations
• Develop mathematical notation skills

Materials

• Dot game paper (columns: units, tens, hundreds, thousands)
• Color-coded pencils (green, blue, red, green)
• Number cards for problems

Instructions

1. Write first number in dots (one dot per unit, per ten, etc.). 2. Write second number below. 3. Count total dots in units column. 4. If 10+, circle ten dots, make one dot in tens column. 5. Continue for all columns. 6. Count dots for answer.

Educator tip

Color coding matches golden beads: green=units, blue=tens, red=hundreds. This consistency supports transition to abstraction.

Assessment

Child performs multi-digit addition using the dot game with carrying.

More from Mathematics

• Introduction to Zero
• Pattern Block Designs
• Number Line Walk
• Measurement: Length with Non-Standard Units
• Snake Game: Addition
• Division Board
• Place Value with Numeral Cards
• Geometric Shape Exploration: Sides and Corners