Ten Frame

A ten frame is an easy and simple way to teach basic mathematical concepts. It is an excellent introduction to math, especially for preschoolers and toddlers.

Ten Frame Definition & Meaning

A ten frame is a method of teaching numbers and counting wherein objects are normally used to represent the different numbers.

The ten frame is rectangular in shape and consists of ten equal and individual frames or spaces.

What Is a Ten Frame?

The simple and straightforward design of a ten frame is necessary since the target audience for it is children or students in early education. A ten frame can be designed in various creative ways and different objects or elements may be used to demonstrate numerical values. For preschool and early education teachers, a ten frame is one of the most effective teaching tools to help develop a number sense.

5 Types of Ten Frames

Spring Ten Frame

The best thing about using a ten frame is that you can incorporate any object of your choice in the design. The spring ten frame template below uses a flower clipart to demonstrate numerical patterns and reasoning. The colorful and pretty design is sure to capture the attention of preschoolers.

Double Ten Frame

Many children learn counting from an early age and using a ten frame can be effective in helping them further develop this basic skill. The double ten frame template uses various shapes to illustrate this concept. Additionally, introducing a second, or even a third, ten frame can help develop a child’s ability to learn and understand two-digit numbers.

Kindergarten Ten Frame

The kindergarten ten frame example below is perfect for kids with its red heart-themed design. But you can use any shape or object of your choice, there are tons of different clipart and vector images to choose from. For teachers and tutors, do not forget to include clear and simple instructions in your ten frame worksheets.

Large Ten Frame

When it comes to ten frames, you can be as creative and innovative as you want for as long as it drives the point home. Using a large ten frame, for instance, can be used to facilitate better learning for preschoolers, kindergarten students, and even first grade students. A life-size or 3D ten frame might take more effort to create, but they are both unique and creative ways of teaching math.

Ten Frame with Numbers

If you have young children at home, you can introduce the basic concepts of addition and subtraction by using the ten frame with numbers approach. When it comes to basic mathematical skills, some teaching methods rely on just pure memorization. But the ten frame technique offers a more engaging and interactive alternative to help children gain a better and full understanding of the concept.

Ten Frame Uses, Purpose, and Importance

A ten frame is an excellent starting point for teaching the fundamentals of addition and subtraction. For young kids who are just starting to get acquainted with numbers, the ten frame method is a simple and fun way to learn. 

Learning Tool for Math

Ten frame is essentially a learning tool for Mathematics. Early education instructors and teachers use it to teach preschoolers or toddlers number patterns and simple counting. The simple and straightforward design of a ten frame makes it ideal for youngsters and kids.

Visual Representation of Numbers

In a ten frame, numbers are represented by different objects. The object representation in the frames help young children visualize the number patterns and thus aid in their overall understanding. You can input basically anything in the ten frames- from shapes, fruits, physical objects, to drawings. 

Teach Youngsters the Value of Numbers

Early education and formation is important for each child and it is never too early to teach kids the value of numbers. And Mathematics is a fundamental subject not just in formal education, but it is necessary for daily life as well. With a ten frame, preschool and kindergarten children are introduced to counting and other basic mathematical concepts in a visual and engaging way.

Serves as an Introduction to Addition and  Subtraction

The ten frame technique is a great way to introduce the basic mathematical concepts of addition and subtraction. Children do not have to use mere memorization in order to learn, their understanding is deepened with the use of a visual ten frame. Further, using objects in place of ordinary numbers is just more fun and interesting.  

Develop Arithmetic Skills

As mentioned previously, it is never too early to teach kids the basic concepts of math. As soon as the child can start counting numbers, you can introduce the ten frame approach to help them develop their arithmetic skills. Using two or more ten frames, you can slowly incorporate two-digit numbers, addition, and subtraction to the lessons. 

What’s in a Ten Frame? Parts?

Title

If you are crafting your own ten frame worksheet or activity sheet, always provide an appropriate title at the top of the page. Think of a creative and engaging title that will capture the attention of young students.   

Name

Below the title, leave adequate space for your students to input their name. You may also include the date beside the name if you prefer.

Instructions

A ten frame can be used in various ways so make sure you provide clear instructions on what the student is supposed to do or accomplish. Be sure that the instructions are simple and uncomplicated enough for a preschool or kindergarten student to comprehend.

Rectangular Frame

You can put as many ten frames as you want in your worksheet. You can likewise keep the frames blank if the students are instructed to place objects into the spaces themselves. 

Objects

Choose objects that are colorful and images that stand out. Since a ten frame rectangle is simply boxes and borders, add vibrancy and character with bright-colored shapes, animals, objects, etc.

Color

The use of color is crucial in creating a ten frame worksheet. You can use several different colors to distinguish each object from another.

How to Design a Ten Frame?

1. Select a suitable ten frame size

2. Establish the objective for creating the ten frame

3. Select a ten frame template of your choice

4. Edit the title and instructions of the template

5. Add more ten frames as needed

6. Add in objects and more color according to your objectives/instructions

Ten Frame vs. Playing Cards

Ten frame is a mathematical learning method that is primarily used to teach counting and basic math to toddlers and preschool students. 

Playing cards are a set of illustrated cards known as a deck and although they promote strategic thinking and cognitive skills, they are mainly used for recreational purposes rather than educational reasons. 

What’s the Difference Between a Ten Frame, a Boggle Board, and a Crossword?

Ten frame is a tool used by early education teachers and instructors to help young students understand basic number patterns and mathematical concepts.

A boggle board is a grid composed of 4×4 or 5×5 squares that is used in the Boggle board game.

Crossword is a casual puzzle word game wherein players need to form complete words using a set of guided clues on a rectangle grid of black and white squares.

Ten Frame Sizes

A ten frame can come in different sizes depending on how you want to convey the lesson. If you are tasked to create a ten frame worksheet or activity, it might be helpful to take note of the various ten frame sizes.

• Plastic Ten Frame (7.87 x 6.1 inches)
• Magnetic Ten Frame (13 x 5.5 inches)
• Ten Frame Flash Cards (3.5 x 2.38 inches)

Ten Frame Ideas and Examples

Making a ten frame requires creativity and imagination, especially because the target audience are young kids and students. The different ten frame ideas and templates below are a great way to get your creativity flowing.

• Ten Frame with Dots Ideas and Examples
• Small Ten Frame Ideas and Examples
• Blank Ten Frame Ideas and Examples
• Single Ten Frame Ideas and Examples
• Bus Ten Frame Ideas and Examples

Ten Frame FAQs

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