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manipulatives

Base-ten blocks activities

Use blocks for place value, addition, subtraction and decimals.

Quick answer

Base-ten blocks are physical tools that help children understand place value, addition, subtraction, and decimals by using blocks that represent ones, tens, hundreds, and thousands.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will understand how to use base-ten blocks to show numbers, add and subtract, and learn about place value. Success signs:
  • You can build any number using base-ten blocks
  • You can add two numbers using the blocks
  • You can subtract using the blocks
  • You can explain what each block represents

Why this matters

Base-ten blocks help children understand how numbers work in a hands-on way. They make abstract ideas like place value, addition, and subtraction much easier to understand. These blocks are used in schools and at home to help children build strong maths skills. They are especially helpful for children who learn better by touching and seeing things.

How it works

Base-ten blocks are special tools that help us see and touch numbers. They come in different sizes:
  • One block – This is a small cube that represents one unit
  • Long block – This is a long stick made of ten small cubes, representing ten
  • Flat block – This is a flat square made of ten long blocks, representing one hundred
  • Big cube – This is a large cube made of ten flat blocks, representing one thousand
You can use these blocks to build any number by combining them. For example, to make the number 247, you would use 2 flat blocks, 4 long blocks, and 7 one blocks.

Examples you can see

Let's look at how to use base-ten blocks for different tasks. Example 1: Making numbers To show the number 362:
  • Use 3 flat blocks (300)
  • Use 6 long blocks (60)
  • Use 2 one blocks (2)
Example 2: Adding numbers To add 142 + 235:
  • Start with 1 flat, 4 long, and 2 one blocks for 142
  • Add 2 flats, 3 longs, and 5 ones for 235
  • Count all the blocks together
  • You will have 3 flats, 7 longs, and 7 ones
  • This equals 377
Example 3: Subtracting numbers To subtract 235 - 142:
  • Start with 2 flats, 3 longs, and 5 ones for 235
  • Take away 1 flat, 4 longs, and 2 ones for 142
  • You are left with 0 flats, 9 longs, and 3 ones
  • This equals 93

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Treasure Hunt You are on a treasure hunt in a magical land where numbers come alive. You need to collect blocks to find the treasure.
  1. First, you find a chest with 342 gold coins. Use your base-ten blocks to show this number.
  2. Next, you find another chest with 256 gold coins. Add these to your first chest.
  3. Then, you need to share 125 coins with your friend. How many coins do you have left?
  4. Finally, you find a special block that is worth 1000 coins. How many of these blocks do you need to make 2000 coins?

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Mixing up which block is which
    Why it happens: Children may not remember the size or name of each block.
    Fix: Practice naming each block and matching it to its value.
  • Mistake: Forgetting to regroup when adding
    Why it happens: Children might not understand that 10 ones make 1 long.
    Fix: When you have 10 of any block, trade it for the next bigger block.
  • Mistake: Thinking that 200 is bigger than 1000
    Why it happens: Children may not understand the value of each place.
    Fix: Use the blocks to show that 10 flats make 1 big cube.

Parent and carer guide

Parents and carers can help by:
  • Using the blocks daily for 10-15 minutes to practice
  • Encouraging children to explain what each block means
  • Playing games like "How many blocks do you need to make 56?"
  • Letting children teach you how to use the blocks
  • Not worrying if they make mistakes – they are learning!
When children are using the blocks:
  • Ask questions like "How many tens are in this number?"
  • Encourage them to check their work by counting
  • Give praise for effort, not just right answers
  • Use the blocks to solve real-life problems like sharing snacks

Practice questions

  1. How many blocks do you need to show 427?
  2. What is 156 + 234?
  3. What is 375 - 142?
  4. How many tens are in 500?
  5. What number does 3 flats, 6 longs, and 9 ones make?
Answers:
  1. 3 flats, 6 longs, 9 ones
  2. 390
  3. 233
  4. 50
  5. 369

FAQ

What are base-ten blocks used for?

Base-ten blocks are used to help children understand place value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division by using physical blocks that represent ones, tens, hundreds, and thousands.

Can I make base-ten blocks at home?

Yes! You can make them using items like small cubes for ones, popsicle sticks for tens, and flat pieces of cardboard for hundreds. Just make sure they are clearly different sizes.

How do base-ten blocks help with learning maths?

They help children see and touch numbers, making abstract ideas like place value and regrouping easier to understand. This builds a strong foundation for more advanced maths.

Are base-ten blocks only for young children?

No, base-ten blocks can be used by children of all ages. They are especially helpful for children who are learning decimals, multiplication, or division.

Where can I buy base-ten blocks?

You can buy them in most educational supply stores or online. Many schools also provide them for students to use at home.