L2 4-Digit Column Addition, with exchanges

This Year 4 Autumn Term Addition and Subtraction lesson plan provides a complete, structured approach to teaching formal columnar addition with exchanges. Building on the previous lesson, pupils begin by revisiting key place value knowledge and the basics of written column addition. Through guided questioning—such as identifying what each digit represents and why accurate alignment matters—teachers can assess and strengthen foundational understanding before moving into new learning. Clear, animated teaching slides model how to add four-digit numbers where regrouping is required. Children are shown step-by-step how to add the ones column, identify totals greater than nine, and correctly exchange ten ones for one ten, recording this accurately in the column method. Further worked examples support guided practice, with paired whiteboard activities providing valuable assessment opportunities before pupils move on to independent work. The practical task consolidates learning as pupils choose cut-up question cards and solve each addition with exchanges in their maths books. Differentiation is built into the plan, with optional use of place value counters or base-10 resources for children needing additional support. The plenary revisits key concepts and uses Malachi’s example calculation to highlight a common misconception—forgetting to add the exchanged digit. The resource includes teaching notes, key questions, assessment opportunities, and typical errors to watch for. Fully aligned to the National Curriculum objective to add and subtract numbers with up to four digits using formal written methods, this lesson offers a complete, mastery-based approach to progressing children’s accuracy and confidence with columnar addition involving exchanges.