Teen numbers are the numbers from 11 to 19. Each one is made of a group of ten and some extra ones. Knowing how these numbers are built helps students understand place value and how numbers work.
All teen numbers start with one ten. The second digit tells how many ones are added to the ten.
Counting real items helps children understand that teen numbers are made by putting together 10 and some more. This connects counting to number concepts.
Always begin by forming the group of ten. Then ask: “How many more are there?”
Ten-frames help students see numbers visually. By filling one full ten-frame and part of another, students see how teen numbers are built from 10 and more.
Using two ten-frames shows that teen numbers are always more than 10 but less than 20.
Learning to read and write the names of teen numbers helps with number recognition and spelling. Students connect number symbols with their names.
Some teen number names don’t follow regular spelling patterns. Practice them daily with visuals and repetition.
Place value blocks show how numbers are made of tens and ones. Teen numbers always have 1 ten and the rest as ones.
Use real or pictured base-ten blocks to help students clearly see how many tens and ones are in a number.
Comparing teen numbers helps children understand which has more or fewer ones when both have one ten. This supports number sense and math vocabulary.
Ask: “They both have 1 ten, so which has more ones?” Let students count and compare.
Fluency means recognizing and understanding teen numbers quickly. Students should connect the number, its word name, and how it's built from 10 and more.
Use fast-paced, fun activities often. Repeating teen numbers daily helps students become confident and accurate.