Adding the same number again
Repeated addition means we add the same number many times. It helps us count equal groups quickly, without counting one by one. If we have groups that are the same size, we add that number one time for each group. This is the first step towards learning to multiply. The important thing is that every group must have the same amount.
Key idea
3 groups of 2 = 2 + 2 + 2 = 6. We add the same number once for each group.
Count the groups
Worked example
There are 3 plates. Each plate has 3 buns. How many buns in all? We add 3 for each plate: 3 + 3 + 3 = 9 buns.
Remember
- Groups must be equal.
- Add the same number for each group.
- It is faster than counting one by one.
- Count on to check.