Making 10 Worksheet | Essential Grade 1 Math Practice

Mastering the Core of Addition: The 'Making 10' Strategy

This worksheet offers focused, effective practice for first-grade students learning the foundational math strategy of "making 10." By visually engaging with ten frames and number bonds, students develop number sense and build a critical pathway to fluency in addition and subtraction. This resource breaks down the concept of composing and decomposing the number 10 into clear, manageable steps, allowing students to build confidence and competence with each of the 12 problems provided.

At a Glance

• Grade: 1 · Subject: Math
• Standard: CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.OA.A.1 — Use addition and subtraction to solve problems by putting together and taking apart.
• Skill Focus: Making 10 with Ten Frames & Number Bonds
• Format: 3 pages · 12 problems · Answer key included · PDF
• Best For: Foundational addition fact practice
• Time: 10–15 minutes

What's Inside

This three-page resource provides 12 unique problems, each presenting a number and a ten frame. Students determine how many more are needed to make 10, filling in the ten frame and completing a corresponding number bond. This dual-representation approach reinforces part-part-whole relationships. The clean layout ensures focus, and a complete answer key supports quick grading or self-checking.

A Progression to Independence

Structured for gradual release, this worksheet transitions students from guided to independent learning. Teachers can model initial problems, followed by supported partner work on pages 1-2. Page 3 provides independent practice, perfect for assessing mastery or as an exit ticket.

Standards Alignment

Directly aligned with CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.OA.A.1, this worksheet supports using addition and subtraction strategies. The 'making 10' strategy, crucial for composing and decomposing numbers, builds a flexible approach for solving more complex addition problems within 20. Standard codes are provided for easy integration into lesson plans or curriculum mapping.

How to Use It

This versatile worksheet is ideal for targeted practice after direct instruction on the 'make a ten' strategy, or as a self-directed math center activity using two-color counters. Observe students for formative assessment, noting their approach to finding quantities. Most complete it in 10-15 minutes.

Who It's For

Primarily for first graders mastering addition and number composition, this resource also suits advanced kindergarteners or second graders needing a foundational review. It complements classroom anchor charts for number bonds to 10, offering structured practice to internalize this key concept.

Mastery of 'making 10' is a significant predictor of future mathematical success. Aligned with CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.OA.A.1, this worksheet uses ten frames and number bonds to help students visualize and internalize part-whole relationships. By providing structured, purposeful practice, it moves new knowledge to long-term memory. The ability to quickly decompose numbers to make ten is a flexible strategy crucial for multi-digit addition and subtraction, making this a high-leverage instructional activity for primary math classrooms.