Chapter 4 of Class 1 Joyful Mathematics, Making 10, focuses entirely on the number 10 — exploring every pair of numbers that add up to it.
Key Concepts
Number pairs that make 10: 0+10, 1+9, 2+8, 3+7, 4+6, 5+5, and their reverses.
Ten-frame: a simple 2×5 grid used to visually show how many more counters are needed to reach 10.
Why 10 matters: it’s a key foundation for the base-ten number system used in all later arithmetic.
Quick Recap
- If a ten-frame shows 7 filled boxes, 3 more are needed to make 10.
- Practising all six number pairs (0+10 through 5+5) by heart makes later addition and subtraction much faster.
Common Mistake to Avoid
Only memorising the pairs in one order — make sure a child recognises 3+7 and 7+3 as the same pair, just written in reverse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is “making 10” such an important skill?
Because the number system groups everything in tens, knowing these pairs by heart makes later addition, subtraction, and place value much easier to learn.
How can a ten-frame be used at home without a printed one?
Draw a simple 2×5 grid on paper, or use an egg carton with 10 slots, and fill it with buttons or coins to practise the same idea.
Full walkthrough: Chapter 4 Solutions · Extra Questions.

