Unit Plan 16 (Grade K Math): Make Ten
Use ten-frames to find the missing part that makes 10 (1–9), record pairs with equations, and build fluency with make-ten partners for strong number-sense foundations.
Focus: Find the number that makes 10 when given 1–9; use ten-frame structure to see pairs that compose 10 and record with equations.
Grade Level: K
Subject Area: Mathematics (Operations & Algebraic Thinking)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 30–40 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students use ten-frames to notice structure: a full frame means 10, and empty spots show the missing part. They practice finding a number’s partner that makes 10 (complements of 10) with two-color counters, number bonds, and quick equations (e.g., 7 + 3 = 10). Emphasis is on seeing 5-and-some-more, counting empty spaces, and matching model → words → equation.
Essential Questions
- How can the ten-frame help me see what number makes 10?
- What are all the pairs that compose 10?
- How do my model and my equation show the same idea?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Use ten-frames to find the missing part that makes 10 for any given 1–9.
- Record pairs that make 10 with equations (e.g., 6 + 4 = 10, 10 = 8 + 2).
- Explain why a pair makes 10 using structure (empty boxes/filled boxes, 5-and-some).
- Fluently name common make-ten partners (e.g., 9–1, 8–2, 7–3, 6–4, 5–5).
Standards Alignment — CCSS Kindergarten (threaded across the unit)
- K.OA.4: For any number from 1 to 9, find the number that makes 10 when added to the given number, using objects or drawings.
- Mathematical Practices: MP.7 (Use structure) emphasized; MP.2, MP.6 threaded.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can look at the ten-frame and say the missing part to make 10.
- I can write an equation that matches my model.
- I can say my number’s partner that makes 10 without counting all.