Addition Facts: Making Ten

Making ten is the most important mental math strategy. Fluency with ten-pairs accelerates all future computation.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Mathematics
• Learning area: Memory Work
• Level: Ages 4-6

Objectives

• Master number pairs that make ten
• Build mental math fluency
• Develop fact automaticity
• Prepare for multi-digit operations

Materials

• Ten-frame
• Two-color counters
• Making ten cards
• Ten bead stair

Instructions

1. Place counters on ten-frame. 2. Fill with one color: 7 red. 3. Fill remaining with second color: 3 blue. 4. Record: 7 + 3 = 10. 5. Try all combinations. 6. Practice speed: flash a number, say its partner. 7. Play 'Make Ten' card game.

Educator tip

This is a fact that should become automatic. Use games and songs to practice daily until pairs are instant recall.

Assessment

Child quickly names the complement to make ten for any single digit.

More from Mathematics

• Graphing and Data Collection
• Subtraction Strip Board
• Introduction to Greater Than and Less Than
• Odd and Even Numbers
• Thousand Chain Counting
• Addition Strip Board
• Subtraction with Golden Beads: Static
• Number Bonds to 10