This is a guest post by the educator Anne Gardner.

Number lines are common in primary classrooms - but a number path may be a better tool for many students to use as they work with addition, subtraction and comparison problems. 

A number line uses a model of length. Each number is represented by its length from zero. Number lines can be confusing for young children. Students have to count the "hops" they take between numbers instead of counting the numbers themselves. Students' fingers can land in the spaces between numbers on a number line, leaving kids unsure which number to choose.

A number path is a counting model.  Each number is represented within a rectangle and the rectangles can be clearly counted. A number path provides a more supportive model of numbers, which is important as we want models that consistently help students build confidence and accurately solve problems.
  
I have been using number paths for a few years and highly recommend them for use in Kindergarten and First grade. 
  
Most major publishers are not yet utilizing number paths. So, I wrote some word problems using number paths. CLICK HERE to download the free samples shown below.

Jordy Koski, founder of Tapfun, saw these word problems and contacted me about turning them into an iPad app.  I was so excited!  We've been working together for several months, and here it is . . . 

The first level, Addition and Subtraction within Ten, is free. CLICK HERE to grab the free version.

The full school version with all levels is available here:
https://apps.apple.com/app/id698772777

We are offering this full version through the Volume Purchase Plan as well here:
https://volume.itunes.apple.com/us/app/math-word-problems-addition/id698772777

Thanks for stopping by and taking a look.  I'd love to hear your thoughts on number paths.  If you get a chance to check out this app, I'd also really love to hear your comments, thoughts and/or suggestions!  :) Anne

We are currently redesigning all Tapfun app icons. Below is the new icon for First Alphabet that follows this new design. A white border is meant to match with the border on the Tapfun Logo. What do you think?