What is a Ten Frame?

Understanding that numbers are composed of tens and ones is an important foundational concept, setting the stage for work with larger numbers.

A strong sense of "ten" is a prerequisite for place-value understanding and mental calculations. But how to develop this idea? The following are excerpts from an essay published by Didax that gives information about how the Ten Frame can be used to foster important math skills and concepts. In an essay published by Didax the author stated that:

As teachers can attest, ten-frames are highly useful tools for developing number sense within the context of ten. Arranging counters in different ways on the ten-frame prompts students to form mental images of the numbers represented. (http://bpsassets.weebly.com/uploads- /9/9/3/2/9932784/what_is_a_ten_frame.pdf ).

Further the National Council of the Teachers of Math points out, "The ten-frame uses the concept of benchmark numbers (5 and 10) and helps students develop visual images for each number."

Another advantage of using the Counting Ten Frame is that unlike other Ten Frame products there are no separate mats, magnets, discs and separate parts to be lost, broken, or replaced. The Counting Ten Frame is durable and essentially child proof. It is produced locally in Los Angeles.