K.NBT.1: Numbers 11-19

1. Ten Frames Plus Ones

Use a filled ten frame plus additional counters to show numbers 11-19. For example, 13 would be a full ten frame plus 3 more counters.

2. Base Ten Blocks

Use a ten rod (or 10 individual units) plus additional unit blocks to represent numbers 11-19.

3. Bundled Objects

Use objects like popsicle sticks or straws. Bundle 10 together with a rubber band, then add individual ones to show numbers 11-19.

4. Number Cards

Create cards showing numbers 11-19 with a visual representation: a group of 10 objects plus additional ones.

1. Counting Collections

Create collections of 11-19 objects (buttons, coins, etc.). Have your child count out 10 and group them, then count the extras.

2. Teen Number Hunt

Look for numbers 11-19 in your home or neighborhood. When you find one, discuss how it's made up of a ten and some ones.

3. Building Block Teens

Use building blocks of two different colors. Use 10 of one color to represent the ten, and the other color for the additional ones.

4. Teen Number Books

Create a simple book with one page for each number 11-19. On each page, show the number, the word, and a picture of 10 objects plus the additional ones.

5. Snack Math

Use small snacks like cereal or raisins. Count out 10 and put them in a group, then add more to make teen numbers.

1. Use Concrete Objects

If your child struggles with abstract concepts, use physical objects they can group and count.

2. Connect to Counting

Help your child see that when counting past 10, they're adding ones to a group of ten. "Ten, and one more is eleven, and one more is twelve..."

3. Focus on the Pattern

Emphasize the pattern: 11 is 10 and 1, 12 is 10 and 2, etc. Help your child see the connection between the digit in the ones place and the number of additional ones.

4. Use Consistent Language

Use clear language like "ten and three more makes thirteen" to reinforce the concept.

5. Write the Numbers

Help your child connect the written number to its composition. For example, in 14, the 1 represents one ten and the 4 represents four ones.

Activity 1: Build the Number

Say a number between 11 and 19. Have your child show that number using a ten frame plus additional counters.

Activity 2: Match the Number

Create cards showing numbers 11-19 and separate cards showing a ten and some ones. Have your child match them.

Activity 3: Fill in the Blank

Say: "I have 10 and ___ more. The number is 16. How many more do I have?"

Activity 4: Count and Group

Give your child a pile of 11-19 objects. Have them count out 10 and group them together, then count the extras.

By the middle of the year, your child should:

• Count to at least 15
• Begin to understand that teen numbers are made up of a ten and some ones
• Represent teen numbers using objects or drawings with support

By the end of the year, your child should:

• Count to at least 20
• Understand that numbers 11-19 are composed of ten ones and one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine ones
• Represent teen numbers using objects, drawings, or equations (e.g., 13 = 10 + 3)
• Decompose teen numbers into a ten and some ones

Simple Assessment:

Ask your child to show you what 14 looks like using objects or drawings.
Give your child 16 counters and ask them to show you the ten and the ones.
Say a teen number and ask your child to tell you how many tens and how many ones it has.