Solved problems: Using the Make a Ten strategy in addition

📚 Understanding the 'Make a Ten' Strategy

The 'Make a Ten' strategy is a mental math technique used to simplify addition problems, especially when dealing with numbers close to ten. It involves breaking down one of the addends to create a ten with the other addend, making the addition easier to perform.

📜 History and Background

While the exact origin is difficult to pinpoint, the 'Make a Ten' strategy has likely been used informally for centuries. Its formal inclusion in math education is more recent, gaining prominence as educators seek effective methods for fostering number sense and mental math skills in young learners.

⭐ Key Principles of 'Make a Ten'

• 🎯 Identify Numbers Near Ten: Recognize numbers that are close to 10 (e.g., 8, 9, 7). These are ideal candidates for this strategy.
• ➗ Decompose One Addend: Break down one of the numbers into two parts. The goal is to use one part to make the other number a 10.
• ➕ Make a Ten: Add the chosen part to the number closest to ten, creating a sum of 10.
• ➕ Add the Remainder: Add the remaining part of the decomposed number to the 10 you created.

➕ Real-World Examples

Let's illustrate the 'Make a Ten' strategy with some examples:

Example 1: 8 + 6

1. Break down 6 into 2 + 4.
2. Add 2 to 8 to make 10 (8 + 2 = 10).
3. Add the remaining 4 to 10 (10 + 4 = 14).
4. Therefore, 8 + 6 = 14.

Example 2: 9 + 7

1. Break down 7 into 1 + 6.
2. Add 1 to 9 to make 10 (9 + 1 = 10).
3. Add the remaining 6 to 10 (10 + 6 = 16).
4. Therefore, 9 + 7 = 16.

Example 3: 7 + 5

1. Break down 5 into 3 + 2.
2. Add 3 to 7 to make 10 (7 + 3 = 10).
3. Add the remaining 2 to 10 (10 + 2 = 12).
4. Therefore, 7 + 5 = 12.

✍️ Practice Quiz

Solve these addition problems using the 'Make a Ten' strategy:

1. 6 + 8 = ?
2. 5 + 9 = ?
3. 7 + 6 = ?
4. 8 + 4 = ?
5. 9 + 3 = ?
6. 6 + 5 = ?
7. 7 + 8 = ?

💡 Tips for Success

• 🧮 Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the faster and more comfortable you'll become with this strategy.
• 🤔 Visualize the Numbers: Mentally picture breaking down the numbers and moving parts to create a ten.
• 🗣️ Verbalize the Steps: Talk through the steps as you solve the problems to reinforce your understanding.
• ✏️ Use Manipulatives: Use physical objects (like counters or blocks) to represent the numbers and the decomposition process.

✅ Conclusion

The 'Make a Ten' strategy is a valuable tool for building number sense and improving mental math skills. By mastering this technique, students can approach addition problems with greater confidence and efficiency. It’s all about breaking down the numbers and making it easier on yourself!