As students begin to learn about numbers and place value in math, it is important to also teach them how to write tens and ones. This skill is fundamental for later math concepts and can also help students better understand the value of numbers. Here are some activities to teach students to write tens and ones, for numbers up to 30.
1. Build and count with manipulatives: Provide students with sets of ten and single unit blocks. Have them count and build numbers up to 30 using the manipulatives, and then write the numbers in tens and ones format (e.g. 27 = 2 tens and 7 ones).
2. Play “Roll and Write” games: For this activity, students roll a die with numbers 1-6 and record the number they roll. They can then count out the corresponding number of unit blocks (for ones) and quickly find the corresponding ten block(s). After building the number with the manipulatives, students record the number in tens and ones format. Play this game as a class or in small groups to keep students engaged.
3. Use Ten Frames: Ten frames are a useful tool for teaching and learning place value concepts. Using a blank ten frame, students can build numbers up to 30 by placing the appropriate number of dots in the squares. For example, if the number is 23, they will fill up two of the ten frames and three dots in the remaining squares. After building the number, students can write it in tens and ones format.
4. Teach place value with games: Play “Race to 30”, where students take turns rolling a die and adding that many units to their board. The first person to reach 30 wins! As they count and add, encourage students to say the number in tens and ones format (e.g. “I rolled a 4, so I have 2 tens and 4 ones for 24”). Other games like “Memory Match” can be adapted by writing numerals on cards and their corresponding tens-and-ones representation on other cards.
5. Write numbers in word form: Introduce students to the concept of writing numbers in word form (e.g. twenty-seven). Once they become comfortable with this, have them convert the word form to tens and ones (e.g. twenty-seven = 2 tens and 7 ones). Practicing this skill will help reinforce their understanding of the relationship between numbers and their value.
With these activities and a little bit of patience, students can gain a solid understanding of writing numbers in tens and ones. Incorporate them into your lesson plans for a fun and engaging way to teach place value concepts and set your students up for success in later math classes.
