Practicing ways to make 10

One very important math concept for kindergarteners to master is what we call "ways to make 10." Since 10 is such an important number in our base-ten number system, we want kindergarteners to be comfortable with quickly adding any two numbers to make 10. Here's what the Common Core standards say that kindergarteners should be able to do by the time they enter first grade:

For any number from 1 to 9, find the number that makes 10 when added to the given number, e.g., by using objects or drawings, and record the answer with a drawing or equation.

 Since the end of the year is approaching, we have been doing lots of practice making 10! Here are some of the ways we have practiced, by making number bonds, counting the letters in our names, stamping with bingo dobbers, rolling playdough, and making caterpillars!

If you have time at home, ask your child if they can tell you any ways to make 10! You can also write down number sentences such as 10 = __ + __, or 9 + __ = 10, which is great practice for them.