Step 1 Objective

Add and subtract mentally a 'near multiple of 10' to or from a two-digit number.

Examples of what pupils should know and be able to do

Probing questions

Can you explain to me an efficient method for adding 19?

Why is this a good mental method for adding 19? What is the difference between adding 19 and subtracting 19 using this method? Show me why this is, using a 1-100 grid.

What if pupils find this a barrier?

Number Grid ITP - Zip file (462Kb) may be useful in establishing quick ways to add, for example, 29 i.e. add 30 and then subtract 1.

Counting on and back ITP - Zip file (456Kb).

Use bead strings that are grouped in tens to practise adding and subtracting near multiples of 10.

Encourage pupils to see equivalent calculations e.g.

26 + 19 will have the same value as 25 + 20;
52 − 19 will have the same value as 53 − 20.

Teaching mental calculation strategies to level 5 booklet DfES 0744-2004G from QCA

Use Teaching mental calculation strategies loop cards set 3 to practise - Acrobat pdf document (24Kb)