X Tables
Number Sense

Number bonds to 10

Use ten frames, bead strings and stories to learn pairs that make 10.

Quick answer

Number bonds to 10 are pairs of numbers that add together to make 10. Examples include 3 + 7 = 10, 5 + 5 = 10, and 1 + 9 = 10.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will know all the number bonds to 10 and be able to use them to solve simple addition problems quickly. Success signs:
  • You can say the pairs that make 10 without counting
  • You can solve addition problems like 8 + ? = 10
  • You can use number bonds to help with subtraction
  • You can explain how 6 + 4 = 10 using objects or drawings

Why this matters

Number bonds to 10 are the foundation for all addition and subtraction. When you know that 7 + 3 = 10, you can quickly figure out that 10 - 7 = 3. These bonds help you do mental maths faster. They are also useful in real life, like when you are sharing snacks, counting your coins, or working out how many more items you need.

How it works

Number bonds to 10 are pairs of numbers that add up to 10. To find them, you start with one number and think of what number you need to add to get to 10. Let's start with 0 and count up:
  • 0 + 10 = 10
  • 1 + 9 = 10
  • 2 + 8 = 10
  • 3 + 7 = 10
  • 4 + 6 = 10
  • 5 + 5 = 10
You can think of this like filling up a jar that holds 10 marbles. If you put 3 marbles in, you need 7 more to fill it. If you put 6 marbles in, you need 4 more.

Examples you can see

Let's look at some ways to show number bonds to 10: Using ten frames: A ten frame is a grid with 10 spaces. You can fill it with counters to show number bonds. If you put 4 counters in a ten frame, how many more do you need to fill it?
  • 4 + 6 = 10
Using bead strings: A bead string has 10 beads, often in two colours. You can move beads to show different bonds. If 7 beads are red and the rest are blue, how many blue beads are there?
  • 7 + 3 = 10
Using your fingers: Hold up 6 fingers. How many more fingers do you need to make 10?
  • 6 + 4 = 10
Real-world example: Imagine you have 10 cookies and you eat 7. How many are left?
  • 7 + 3 = 10
  • So 10 - 7 = 3

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Number Bond Hunt You are going on a treasure hunt to find the secret number bonds to 10. You have a map with 10 spaces, and you must find all the pairs that make 10.
  • 1st space: Find a pair that adds to 10
  • 2nd space: Find a pair that adds to 10
  • 3rd space: Find a pair that adds to 10
  • 4th space: Find a pair that adds to 10
  • 5th space: Find a pair that adds to 10
  • 6th space: Find a pair that adds to 10
  • 7th space: Find a pair that adds to 10
  • 8th space: Find a pair that adds to 10
  • 9th space: Find a pair that adds to 10
  • 10th space: Find a pair that adds to 10
Can you find all 10 pairs?

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking 6 + 6 = 10
    Why it happens: Confusing number bonds with doubles
    Fix: Remember 6 + 6 = 12, not 10
  • Mistake: Forgetting that 0 + 10 = 10
    Why it happens: Not thinking about zero
    Fix: Remember that zero is a number and can be part of bonds
  • Mistake: Mixing up 3 + 7 and 7 + 3
    Why it happens: Not understanding that order doesn't matter in addition
    Fix: Remember that 3 + 7 = 10 and 7 + 3 = 10

Parent and carer guide

To help your child learn number bonds to 10:
  • Use everyday objects like toys, coins, or fruit to show number bonds
  • Play games like "What's the missing number?" using simple addition
  • Use ten frames or bead strings at home to practice
  • Encourage your child to say all the bonds out loud
  • Don't worry if they don't get them all right away – practice makes progress

Practice questions

  1. What number plus 2 makes 10? Answer: 8
  2. What number plus 5 makes 10? Answer: 5
  3. What number plus 7 makes 10? Answer: 3
  4. What number plus 1 makes 10? Answer: 9
  5. What number plus 9 makes 10? Answer: 1
  6. What number plus 0 makes 10? Answer: 10
  7. What number plus 4 makes 10? Answer: 6
  8. What number plus 8 makes 10? Answer: 2
  9. What number plus 6 makes 10? Answer: 4
  10. What number plus 3 makes 10? Answer: 7

FAQ

What are number bonds to 10?

Number bonds to 10 are pairs of numbers that add up to 10. Examples include 1 + 9 = 10, 2 + 8 = 10, and 5 + 5 = 10.

Why are number bonds important?

Number bonds help you add and subtract quickly. When you know that 7 + 3 = 10, you also know that 10 - 7 = 3. This makes mental maths easier.

How can I practice number bonds at home?

You can use counters, beads, fingers, or drawings to practice. Try saying all the number bonds out loud or playing games like "What's the missing number?"

Are number bonds only for small numbers?

No, number bonds help with all numbers. Once you know bonds to 10, you can use them to learn bonds to 20, 100, and more.

Can I use number bonds for subtraction?

Yes! If you know 7 + 3 = 10, then you also know 10 - 7 = 3 and 10 - 3 = 7.