Our brains like to classify things to help us make sense of what we see. 

This is especially true when we are presented with multiple choices. 

What helps us make better choices is our ability to identify patterns, narrowing the scope to only the solutions that best suit our needs.

For example, let’s say you’re given a set of numbers and asked to find the multiples of ten:

10, 20, 44, 15, 50, 99

You’d immediately classify the numbers that end in zero. 

In this game, students will use those same pattern recognition skills to match number card pairs by adding and subtracting 10. 

Practice Counting with Our 10 More 10 Less Game

Use this resource in your math center, as a small group activity, or a whole class exercise (see below) to practice adding 10 to and subtracting 10 from a given 3-digit number. 

To play, students will take turns flipping number cards to find matching pairs that are ten more and ten less than each other. 

Scaffolding and Extension Tips + Additional 10 More 10, Less Activities

Challenge students who already understand the concept to create their own match-up cards with four-, five-, and six-digit numbers.

Students who need help understanding the concepts can use a number line or a hundreds chart. You can also highlight the digit in the tens place to help students focus on that place value. 

Use this resource as independent practice for fast finishers, and for full-class learning opportunities like scoot activities, lesson reviews, formative assessments, and more.

Jump in the Line 

Have students stand up and provide each with a number card. Then challenge them to silently put themselves in numerical order. 

Swat! 

During small group instruction, create a grid of 5 cards on top of a table and give each student a fly swatter. Say 1 more or less than a visible card on the table. The first student to swat the corresponding number card sets the card aside in their own pile to keep score. The student with the most cards wins. 

Odd Man Out

Set up stations by placing three cards each at desks throughout the room, making sure two cards are within 10 of each other. Student pairs will rotate through each station and identify the cards that are a 10 more 10 less match, writing their answers on a separate sheet of paper. 

Get our 10 Best Scaffolding Strategies here! 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. 

These cards were designed to be printed on both the front and back of the paper so that the numbers are on the front side of the card and the name of the game is on the back.

Follow these directions to print double-sided cards:

1. Click on the printer icon or select File from the navigation bar, and select Print from the dropdown menu
2. From the dialogue box that pops up, next to Pages, click on All and select Custom
3. Enter 2-13 to ensure the cards print front to back
4. Click on More settings
5. Pages per sheet should be set to “1”
6. If it is not already selected, check the box for Print on both sides
7. If it is not already set to Flip on short edge, use the dropdown to make this selection
8. Click the Print button

To print only page 1, use the directions above to step 3. 

Cut on the dotted lines and place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Before You Download

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. 

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This resource was created by Allie Kleijnjans, a teacher in Pennsylvania and a Teach Starter Collaborator. 

 

These counting activities are 10 out of 10 in our book!