Near doubles strategy

Quick answer

The near doubles strategy helps you solve addition problems like 6 + 7 by using a double you already know, like 6 + 6 = 12, then adding one more to get 13.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to use a known double to solve near doubles addition facts quickly and easily.

• You can add two numbers that are close together by using a double you know.
• You can explain how 5 + 6 is the same as 5 + 5 + 1.
• You can solve near doubles problems like 8 + 9 or 11 + 12 using your knowledge of doubles.
• You can check your answers by counting on or using the double strategy.

Why this matters

Learning the near doubles strategy helps you add numbers faster and more confidently. It's a smart way to solve problems in your head without counting on your fingers or using a calculator. This skill is useful for everyday maths like sharing snacks, working out scores in games, or calculating how many toys you have after getting more. It also helps you understand how numbers work together and builds your confidence in maths.

How it works

The near doubles strategy works by using a double fact you already know to help solve a near double problem.

1. First, find the smaller number in the problem.
2. Think of the double of that number.
3. Add one more to the double to get your answer.

For example, if you need to solve 7 + 8:

• The smaller number is 7.
• The double of 7 is 7 + 7 = 14.
• Add one more: 14 + 1 = 15.

So 7 + 8 = 15.

Examples you can see

Let's look at a few examples using the near doubles strategy:

Here's another way to think about it using objects:

• You have 5 apples and your friend gives you 6 more. How many apples do you have?
• You can think: 5 + 5 = 10, then add 1 more to get 11.

Or imagine you're playing a game where you collect 8 stickers and then get 9 more. You can think: 8 + 8 = 16, then add 1 more to get 17 stickers.

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Magic Garden

You are a gardener in a magical garden where plants grow in pairs. Every day, you collect a certain number of flowers and then get one more than that amount the next day. Your mission is to count how many flowers you have after two days!

1. Day 1: You collect 3 flowers.
2. Day 2: You collect 4 flowers.
3. How many flowers do you have in total?

Use your near doubles strategy:

• Think: 3 + 3 = 6
• Add one more: 6 + 1 = 7

So you have 7 flowers in total.

Try another one:

1. Day 1: You collect 7 flowers.
2. Day 2: You collect 8 flowers.
3. How many flowers do you have in total?

• Think: 7 + 7 = 14
• Add one more: 14 + 1 = 15

You have 15 flowers in total.

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking 6 + 7 = 13 and 7 + 6 = 14.
• Why it happens: Confusing the near doubles strategy with regular addition.
• Fix: Remember that 6 + 7 means you have 6 and then get 7 more. Use the double of 6 (which is 12) and add 1 more to get 13.

• Mistake: Forgetting to add one more after finding the double.
• Why it happens: Rushing through the problem or not thinking through the steps.
• Fix: Always double-check that you've added one more after finding the double.

• Mistake: Using the wrong number as the double.
• Why it happens: Not identifying the smaller number correctly.
• Fix: Always look for the smaller number first, then double it.

Parent and carer guide

Helping your child with the near doubles strategy is simple and fun:

• Practice together: Use everyday moments to practice. For example, if you're buying 4 apples and 5 oranges, ask: "How many fruits are there in total?"
• Use objects: Count out 6 blocks and then add 7 more. Or use your fingers to show the double and then add one more.
• Encourage thinking: Ask your child to explain how they solved the problem. This helps them understand the strategy better.
• Be patient: It might take a few tries to get the hang of it. That's okay!
• Don't worry: Your child doesn't need to memorize all the doubles at once. Start with smaller numbers and build up.

Remember: This strategy helps children develop number sense and mental maths skills. It's not about speed, it's about understanding how numbers work.

Practice questions

1. What is 5 + 6?
2. What is 8 + 9?
3. What is 3 + 4?
4. What is 10 + 11?
5. What is 7 + 8?

Answers:

1. 5 + 6 = 11 (because 5 + 5 = 10, then 10 + 1 = 11)
2. 8 + 9 = 17 (because 8 + 8 = 16, then 16 + 1 = 17)
3. 3 + 4 = 7 (because 3 + 3 = 6, then 6 + 1 = 7)
4. 10 + 11 = 21 (because 10 + 10 = 20, then 20 + 1 = 21)
5. 7 + 8 = 15 (because 7 + 7 = 14, then 14 + 1 = 15)

FAQ

What is a near double?

A near double is when you add two numbers that are close together, like 6 + 7 or 9 + 10.

Why is the near doubles strategy helpful?

It helps you solve addition problems quickly by using a double fact you already know, making mental maths easier.

Can I use this strategy for bigger numbers?

Yes! You can use it for any numbers that are close together, like 15 + 16 or 22 + 23.

How can I practice this at home?

You can practice with everyday objects, like counting your toys or snacks, or by playing games that involve adding numbers.

What if I forget the double?

That's okay! You can still count on or use other strategies. The near doubles strategy is just one helpful tool.