10 Frames

A 10 frame is a 5 x 2 rectangular grid.  When the top row is filled, there are 5 objects.  When the whole thing is filled there are 10.  When the first row is full, and the bottom row has 2 there are 7 objects.  When we ask the children what they notice about this quantity, some say, "There are 5 and 2 more so that makes seven." (5+2=7)  Others say, "There are 3 empty spaces, 8,9, and 10 are missing , there are 7 there." (10-3=7)  The children begin to instantly identify these quantities as their visual memory of the grid begins to strengthen.  Using 10 frames is a fun way to develop addition and subtraction skills.  It also helps children learn to count by 2's, 5's, and 10's.  The children took turns setting up their 10 frames, and then having their partner try to determine the quantity.  It was inspiring watching them invest themselves so deeply and joyfully in this relatively simple yet complex mathematical activity.