Number pairs that make 20
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Number pairs that make 20: skill guide
| Objective | This practice develops number pairs that make 20 through a focused sequence of problems. |
|---|---|
| Grade | Grade 1 |
| Standard | CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.OA.C.6 |
| Difficulty | Developing · Mixed |
| Representation | Ten strip, Numerals |
| Practice format | Interactive, account-free practice with immediate feedback |
Objective
This practice develops number pairs that make 20 through a focused sequence of problems.
What this practice covers
This practice develops number pairs that make 20 through a focused sequence of problems. Early questions keep the representation direct, while later questions vary the number placement or remove visual support. Learners connect quantities, equations, and efficient number relationships instead of relying on isolated memorization.
Standards alignment
Supports Common Core: CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.OA.C.6 — Add and subtract within 20 using strategies such as making ten.
Who it’s for
This practice is designed for Grade 1 learners building fluency with numbers through 100. It is also useful for older learners who benefit from a concise visual review before working with abstract equations.
What to know first
- Learners should count reliably, read two-digit numerals, and understand addition as joining parts. Visual models remain available where they clarify tens, ones, or crossing a ten.
Difficulty and scaffolding
Developing · Mixed stage
Problem representations
- Ten strip
- Numerals
Three worked examples
- Ten and 6 make 16: 10 + 6 = 16.
- Two tens and 5 ones make 25: 20 + 5 = 25.
- For 8 + 5, make 10 with 8 + 2, then add the remaining 3 to get 13.
Likely misconceptions
- Learners may count every dot from one, overlook a complete group of ten, or add only two numbers in a three-addend sum. Name the tens first, then the ones, and check that every addend appears in the total.
Hints and explanations
- Ten and 6 make 16: 10 + 6 = 16.
- Two tens and 5 ones make 25: 20 + 5 = 25.
- For 8 + 5, make 10 with 8 + 2, then add the remaining 3 to get 13.
What to practice next
Continue from visual models to numeral-only equations, then use make-ten and count-on strategies to solve less familiar sums efficiently.
Editorial review
Reviewed by Brilliant’s curriculum team. Exercises are generated within defined difficulty ranges and checked against verified answer rules.
Number pairs that make 20 FAQs
What is the goal of number pairs that make 20?
The goal is accurate reasoning with an efficient strategy. A learner should be able to explain what each number represents and use the visual or number relationship without unnecessary recounting.
Should this practice be timed?
No timer is required. First build accurate, understandable strategies. Speed usually improves naturally as learners recognize groups of ten, familiar facts, and repeated patterns.
What should a learner do after a mistake?
Rebuild the problem with the visual, name each part, and check the result using the inverse relationship. A short explanation is more valuable than immediately repeating the same guess.
How many problems should be completed at once?
The full set contains 15 problems, but a learner may pause when attention drops. A short, successful session with clear reasoning is more useful than rushing through a longer set.