Fun Activities To Teach Kids the Identity Property
Some numbers in math are special. They can step into an equation and leave everything unchanged. That’s the magic of the identity property: a rule that shows how 0 is the additive identity (any number plus 0 stays the same) and 1 is the multiplicative identity (any number times 1 stays the same).. Unlike properties such as the commutative or associative properties, it does not involve rearranging or regrouping anything. Instead, numbers keep their value.
Learning this rule builds confidence in basic operations. Children begin to see math as a system with patterns and logic rather than a set of random steps to memorize. And the best part? With a few playful activities, kids can explore the identity property in fun, hands-on ways, without even realizing they’re practicing math.
What Is the Identity Property?
So, what is the identity property in simple terms? The rule says that when you combine a number (n) with its identity element, the result stays n. The “special partner” depends on the operation.
- In addition, the identity element is 0. No matter what number you add to 0, the total stays the same.
- In subtraction, taking away zero also leaves the number unchanged: for example, 16 − 0 = 16.
- In multiplication, the identity element is 1. Multiplying a number by 1 keeps its value.
- In division, dividing a number by 1 gives back the same number: 4 ÷ 1 = 4.
Even though subtraction and division can show a form of identity behavior, children usually first learn the property through addition and multiplication, since these operations are the most common in early math practice.
Identity Property of Addition
The identity property of addition, or additive identity property, says that any number plus zero stays the same. This holds for real, whole, integers, rational, and even complex numbers.
Examples:
- 12 + 0 = 12
- 0 + 67 = 67
- -8 + 0 = -8
Identity Property of Multiplication
According to the identity property of multiplication, also known as the multiplicative identity property, any number times one stays the same.
This works for whole numbers, rational numbers, integers, real numbers, and complex numbers. However, it does not apply if you multiply by -1, since the value changes.
Examples:
- 9 x 1 = 9
- 1 x 53 = 53
- -4 x 1 = -4
Everyday Examples of the Identity Property
Children often understand math more clearly when they can connect it to familiar situations. For example, if your child has a pile of blocks and you add zero more, the total doesn’t change. They can count and see it for themselves.
For multiplication, you can use classroom supplies, like a set of pencils. If you make one copy of the set, the total number doesn’t change. That’s multiplication by one.
Everyday objects make the property less abstract and easier to grasp. When kids see that numbers can remain unchanged in real life, the rule becomes more concrete and relatable.
Fun Activities To Teach the Identity Property
Once children see the identity property in action, hands-on practice helps the idea stick. Instead of rote drilling, you can turn practice into short, playful activities. These work well at home or in the classroom and show that math can feel like part of everyday play.
- Identity Property Bingo: Make bingo cards with problems like 8 + 0 or 6 × 1. Each time children solve one correctly, they mark it off.
- Story Problems: Write simple, silly stories. For example: “You had four cookies, and I gave you zero more. How many do you have now?” The humor keeps attention while reinforcing the rule.
- Flashcard Race: Use quick flashcards with identity property problems. Children flip through them, racing against a timer or a partner.
- Movement Game: Ask kids to jump once (×1) compared to not jumping at all (+0). Linking math to movement makes the idea easier to remember.
Image suggestion: A 4-panel kid-friendly illustration (like a mini poster) showing each activity with playful visuals.
Interactive Learning With Digital Tools
Extra practice doesn’t need to feel dull or repetitive. Online quizzes, worksheets, and printable games can provide the right mix of challenge and fun. Digital tools also let children see concepts like the identity property in different contexts.
Math apps such as Prodigy Math are especially helpful. In Prodigy, students explore a fantasy world where they answer adaptive math questions to complete quests and win battles. The identity property of addition and multiplication appears in the problems students solve, making practice part of an adventure.
(If you’re already exploring strategies for teaching operations, you may also find it helpful to review how to teach multiplication.)
Unlock Confidence With the Identity Property
Helping children understand the identity property shows them that numbers can behave in predictable ways. Recognizing that some operations leave values unchanged helps build a strong base for future learning.
It’s much like learning the rules of a favorite game. Once kids know what stays the same, they can focus more on strategy and less on guesswork.
You can guide them through this journey with everyday examples that make the rule feel natural. And if you need help keeping the momentum going, try Prodigy Math! In this game-based world, young learners get to practice their problem-solving skills as they take on quests and go on exciting adventures.
