Double ten frames

Quick answer

Double ten frames are two 10-frame grids that help children see numbers up to 20 and understand how numbers bridge through 10, making it easier to add and subtract teen numbers.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to use double ten frames to show and understand numbers from 11 to 20, and solve simple addition and subtraction problems that go through 10.

Success signs:

• You can show any number from 11 to 20 on double ten frames
• You can explain how numbers bridge through 10
• You can use double ten frames to add or subtract teen numbers
• You can describe how double ten frames help you think about bigger numbers

Why this matters

Double ten frames are a powerful tool for understanding numbers from 11 to 20. They help you see how numbers are made up of 10 and some more. This is a key step in learning how to add and subtract numbers that go through 10, like 8 + 5 or 13 - 6. You use double ten frames in maths lessons, and they help you understand numbers better in everyday life too.

For example, when you're counting your pocket money, or sharing snacks with friends, or even when you're playing games with your toys, double ten frames help you think about numbers more clearly.

How it works

Double ten frames are two grids, each with 10 spaces. You can fill these spaces with counters, cubes, or dots to show numbers.

Here's how to use them:

1. Use the first ten frame to show the first 10
2. Use the second ten frame to show the remaining amount
3. Count all the filled spaces to see the total
4. Notice how the numbers are made up of 10 and some more

For example, to show 14:

• Fill the first ten frame completely (10 counters)
• Fill 4 spaces in the second ten frame (4 counters)
• You can see 10 and 4 more, which makes 14

Examples you can see

Let's look at some numbers using double ten frames:

Try drawing your own double ten frames for these numbers:

• 12
• 16
• 19

Try it as a mini adventure

Imagine you are a space explorer on a mission to count alien creatures on a distant planet. You have found 13 creatures in one cave and 7 in another cave. How many creatures did you find in total?

Let's solve this using double ten frames:

1. First, show 13 on double ten frames: 10 in the first frame, 3 in the second
2. Then, show 7 on double ten frames: 7 in the second frame
3. Count all the filled spaces to see the total
4. You can see 10 and 10 more, which makes 20

Great! You found 20 creatures in total.

Now try another challenge: You had 15 cookies and ate 8. How many cookies are left?

1. Show 15 on double ten frames: 10 in the first frame, 5 in the second
2. Take away 8 counters
3. Count how many are left
4. You should have 7 left

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking that 14 means 10 + 4, but not seeing the 10 as a group
• Why it happens: Not using the double ten frame to see the structure clearly
• Fix: Always fill the first ten frame completely, then show the extra

• Mistake: Counting the spaces in the second frame as 10 instead of the actual number
• Why it happens: Not focusing on the actual number of counters
• Fix: Count the filled spaces in each frame separately

• Mistake: Not understanding that 10 + 5 = 15, but confusing it with 10 + 5 = 50
• Why it happens: Mixing up the place value
• Fix: Use the double ten frame to see the 10 as one group and the extra as separate

Parent and carer guide

Helping your child with double ten frames is simple and fun:

1. Start with numbers 11 to 15. Show how 11 is 10 and 1 more
2. Use counters or small toys to fill the frames
3. Ask your child to show different numbers
4. Encourage them to explain what they see
5. Play simple addition games with numbers that go through 10

Remember:

• It's okay if they make mistakes. They're learning!
• Keep it short and fun
• Use real-life examples like counting toys or snacks
• Don't rush. Let them explore

Ask questions like: "How many more do you need to make 10?" or "What number is 10 and 4 more?"

Practice questions

1. How would you show 12 on double ten frames?
2. What number is shown if the first frame has 10 counters and the second has 6 counters?
3. Use double ten frames to solve: 10 + 7 = ?
4. Use double ten frames to solve: 15 - 8 = ?
5. How many more counters do you need to make 20 if you have 13 counters?

Answers:

1. Fill first frame completely, then 2 in second frame
2. 16
3. 17
4. 7
5. 7

FAQ

What are double ten frames used for?

Double ten frames help children see numbers from 11 to 20 and understand how numbers bridge through 10. They're great for addition and subtraction problems that go through 10.

How many spaces are in a double ten frame?

There are 20 spaces in total: 10 in the first frame and 10 in the second frame.

Can I use anything instead of counters?

Yes! You can use beans, blocks, cubes, or even draw dots. The important thing is to see the structure clearly.

Are double ten frames only for small children?

Double ten frames are useful for children of all ages. They help build a strong foundation for understanding numbers, which is important for all future maths.

How do I make my own double ten frames?

You can draw two 10-grid boxes on paper, or use a 20-frame template. You can also use a 10-frame and a 10-frame cut out from card, or even use a box with 20 compartments.