How to teach number bonds to 10

For ages 5 to 8 (Years 1 to 3) · 2-minute read · free worksheet

Number bonds to 10 are the pairs that make 10: 1 and 9, 2 and 8, 3 and 7, 4 and 6, 5 and 5. Once they are instant, adding, taking away and working out change all get faster.

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Worksheet includes an answer key for grown-ups

How it works

  1. Hold up 10 fingers.
  2. Fold down the number you are given.
  3. The fingers still standing are its partner.

Worked example

What goes with 7 to make 10? Fold down 7 fingers. 3 are still up, so 7 + 3 = 10.

Top tip

Practise both ways round: 7 + ? = 10 and ? + 7 = 10. Children who only learn one way round often stall.
How to teach number bonds to 10: 7 + ? = 10 Fold 7 fingers. 3 left.

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