Making the Next Whole
Making the Next Whole is a Grade 4 math skill that teaches students a mental computation strategy for fraction addition: decompose one addend to provide exactly what is needed to bring the other addend to the next whole number, then add the remaining part. For example, to add 2 3/4 + 3/4, recognize that 1/4 from the second 3/4 completes the 3/4 to make 3, leaving 2/4 = 1/2 to add: total = 3 1/2. Covered in the fraction chapters of Eureka Math Grade 4, this strategy mirrors the make-a-ten technique and develops efficient fraction computation.
Key Concepts
To find the value needed to get from a decimal to the next whole number, find the amount that must be added to the tenths to make one whole ($10$ tenths). $$current\ decimal + value\ needed = next\ whole\ number$$.
Common Questions
What is the make-the-next-whole strategy for adding fractions?
Identify how much fraction is needed to reach the next whole number from the first addend. Take that amount from the second addend to complete the whole, then add any remaining fraction. This replaces a harder addition with a simpler one through targeted decomposition.
How do I use make-the-next-whole to add 2 3/4 + 3/4?
2 3/4 needs 1/4 to reach 3. Take 1/4 from the second 3/4, leaving 2/4. Now add: 3 + 2/4 = 3 2/4 = 3 1/2. The strategy avoids creating an improper fraction and converts directly to the mixed number result.
How is make-the-next-whole similar to make-a-ten for whole numbers?
In make-a-ten, you take from one addend to bring the other to the nearest ten. In make-the-next-whole, you take from one addend to bring the other to the nearest whole. The structure is identical — complete a round benchmark, then add what remains.
When is the make-the-next-whole strategy most efficient?
This strategy is most efficient when the first addend needs only a small fraction to reach the next whole. If 2 3/4 needs only 1/4, and the second addend is at least 1/4, the strategy reduces computation to simple whole number addition plus one fractional piece.
What is the difference between making the next whole and regrouping?
Making the next whole is a strategic addition approach that decomposes addends before computing. Regrouping is performed after computation when a sum exceeds one whole. Both achieve the same end but at different stages of the calculation.
What chapter introduces make-the-next-whole in Eureka Math Grade 4?
The make-the-next-whole strategy for fraction addition is developed in the fraction chapters of Eureka Math Grade 4, particularly in Chapter 24: Fraction Addition and Subtraction, as one of several flexible addition strategies.