How to Add Numbers Using Dutch (Gemma Method)

In this addition, we avoid the carrying process. Teachers can use this method to explain the addition concepts to children who struggle with the traditional method.

Step 1: Adding Column 1 From the Right

Column 1... Add vertically from the right. 3 + 7 + 3 = 13. Write 13 below the line as indicated without carrying the tens to the next column on the right like the traditional method. 

Step 2: Adding Column 2 From the Right

Add column 2... from the right. 5 + 4 + 7 = 16. Write 16 below the line as indicated. Take notice of how the tens and ones are positioned. Do not do any carrying.

Step 3: Adding Column 3 From the Right

Add column 3... We have 7 + 5 + 5 = 17. Write 17 below the line as indicated. You can easily see how the tens are matching the ones in 13, 16, and 17.

Step 4: Adding Column 4 From the Right

Add column 4... We have 4 + 3 + 7 = 14. Write 14 below the line as indicated. Match the tens of the 17 and the ones of 14 without doing any carrying.

Step 5: Adding Column 5 From the Right

Add column 5... The numbers to add are 2 + 1 + 2 = 5. Write 5 below the line as indicated. Here 5 is a single digit number and therefore we put it under the tens of 14. This is the final calculation and the shape of your arrangement must look like the numeral 2. From here, we add vertically to produce our sum