· Grade 1 lesson · 2 min read
Lesson: Tens and Ones (Grade 1)
In a number like 34, each digit has a job. The 3 counts tens. The 4 counts ones.
Blocks for tens and ones
- A one is a single small cube.
- A ten is a long stick of 10 cubes stuck together.
Here is the number 34:
Count the sticks: 10, 20, 30. Then count on the single cubes: 31, 32, 33, 34.
The place value chart
| Tens | Ones |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4 |
The left digit tells how many tens. The right digit tells how many ones.
Why it matters: 34 vs 43
Both use a 3 and a 4. But they are different numbers!
- 34 = 3 tens and 4 ones
- 43 = 4 tens and 3 ones
43 has more tens, so 43 is bigger.
When you get 10 ones…
Ten single cubes can be swapped for one ten-stick. That's why we never write more than 9 in the ones place.
Your turn
- 52 = 5 tens and 2 ones
- 7 tens and 1 one = 71
- 60 = 6 tens and 0 ones
Practice
Try the Place Value: Tens & Ones worksheets. Then try 10 More & 10 Less.