Hands-On Math: Using Ten-Frames to Add & Subtract Micro Course

Visualize Addition and Subtraction with Ten-Frames

Have you ever had students who can carry out the steps of addition and subtraction on paper, but when you ask them what’s really happening, they freeze? Many young learners try to memorize the algorithm without understanding why it works. They’ll line up numbers, regroup tens, and subtract across zeros, yet the process feels like a set of mysterious rules.
That’s where ten-frames come in. Instead of memorizing steps, students can see numbers grouped into tens and ones, watch what happens when a ten is made or broken apart, and connect the visual model directly to the written algorithm. Ten-frames bridge the gap between procedure and understanding, helping students build a conceptual foundation that helps students make sense of the algorithm.

Course Objectives: 

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Explain why ten-frames support place value understanding and flexible computation.
• Model strategies for adding and subtracting with large quantities using extended ten-frames.
• Guide students in connecting ten-frame models to equations and number sentences.

Target Audience:

• Math Teachers and Coaches

Format:

• Self-paced eLearning course with interactive knowledge checks and real-world scenarios.
• The estimated time to take the course is 10 minutes.
• Downloadable Lesson plans to support student understanding of adding and subtracting using ten frames, geared towards 2nd grade, and can be adjusted to meet the needs of your students.
• A completion certificate is available after completing the course.