Math Intervention 3–5 Grade

Addition and Subtraction Concepts 97

What is the Near Tens Concept?

The near tens concept involves adjusting numbers based on

their proximity to ten. The near tens concept can be used in

addition, for example, 57 + 9 = 57 + 10 – 1 or 57 + 8 = 57 + 10 – 2.

The near tens concept can also be used in subtraction, for

example 83 – 9 = 83 – 10 + 1 or 83 – 8 = 83 – 10 + 2. When

students use the near tens concept, they apply the kind of

fl exibility with numbers that is needed for mental math and

deep conceptual understanding.

CCSS

Operations and Algebraic Thinking

Number and Operations in Base Ten

Formative Assessment

To fi nd out if a student understands the near tens concept,

ask the student to solve the following equations;

48 + 10 = 56 + 20 =

73 – 10 = 67 – 30 =

53 + 9 = 47 + 29 =

64 – 9 = 93 – 49 =

26 + 8 = 44 + 28 =

56 – 8 = 77 – 38 =

Ask students to explain how they solve each problem. If the

student uses the traditional algorithm (successfully or not

successfully), ask the student if she knows another way to

solve the equations. Invite the student to try the problems

using what they know about adding and subtracting tens.

Near Tens for Addition and Subtraction

CONCEPT: