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Maths · Years 1-2
How can I teach tens and ones?
Connect a group of ten objects to one ten, then combine tens and remaining ones to name a two-digit number. Include zero ones so children see that the place still matters.
Download: Tens and ones
A4 PDF · 2 pages · free · no sign-up
Print page 1 for the activity and keep page 2 for teaching notes and answers or suggested responses.
Use A4 paper at 100% or Actual size. Choose by the task and your class; the suggested range is a starting point, not a curriculum-alignment claim.
How to use this resource
- Build a number with bundled sticks or base-ten materials.
- Match the materials to the tens-and-ones drawings and record the number.
- Compare two numbers by looking at the tens before the ones.
Make it easier or add challenge
More support
Build one number using real groups of ten and loose objects before interpreting a drawing.
More challenge
Ask for different ways to represent the same number, including exchanging one ten for ten ones.
What to look for
Can the child explain why 74 is greater than 47 and describe 40 as four tens and zero ones?
Teacher answers and suggested responses
2 tens + 4 ones = 24
4 tens + 0 ones = 40
1 ten + 7 ones = 17
6 tens and 3 ones.
74 is greater because it has 7 tens, while 47 has 4 tens.
A useful next step
Printing, access and sharing
Allow drawing, discussion, practical materials or usual communication tools where they support the learning aim. Use separate paper if a child needs more writing or drawing space.
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