Teaching young students to write numbers can be challenging, especially when it comes to tens and ones. However, there are several engaging and hands-on activities that can help children master this concept. Here are some ideas to help you teach your students to write tens and ones, up to 20.
1. Place Value Mats
One of the easiest and most effective ways to teach tens and ones is by using place value mats. These mats have columns labeled “tens” and “ones,” and students can use manipulatives, such as blocks or counters, to represent the numbers. For example, if they want to show the number 14, they would place one block in the “ten” column and four blocks in the “ones” column.
2. Counting By Tens and Ones
Counting is an essential skill for young children, and counting by tens and ones is an excellent way to reinforce the concept of place value. Start by counting by tens, using manipulatives, and then introduce counting by ones. For example, using a hundred chart, point to the number 10 and show that adding one more block or counter represents 11. Continue counting by ones up to 20.
3. Number Puzzles
Number puzzles are another fun way to teach children to write tens and ones. These puzzles usually include a number and the corresponding blocks that represent that number. Students can match the blocks to the numbers and then practice writing the numbers themselves.
4. Roll and Write
This game is a fun way for students to practice writing numbers independently. Children can roll a dice or spin a spinner and then write the corresponding number in the correct column on their place value mat.
5. Number Bingo
Bingo is always a hit with young children, and it’s a great way to reinforce number recognition and writing skills. Create bingo cards with numbers up to 20, and have students practice writing the numbers as they play.
6. Measuring with Non-Standard Units
Teach students to measure objects using non-standard units such as blocks, cubes, or counters. This activity helps students understand that bigger numbers can be composed of smaller units. For example, if a student uses 10 blocks to measure the length of a pencil, they can see that the number 10 is composed of 1 ten and 0 ones.
In conclusion, teaching students to write tens and ones doesn’t have to be dull or challenging. With engaging activities like place value mats, counting by tens and ones, number puzzles, roll and write, number bingo, and measuring with non-standard units, students can master this important concept while having fun.
