Max Maths, Year 5, Try it, Deriving pairs of decimals with a total of 10

In the Max Maths programme for Year 5, students are encouraged to expand their understanding of decimal numbers by learning how to derive pairs of decimals that sum up to 10. This exercise builds upon their existing knowledge of number pairs that add up to 1, applying it to a larger scale. For instance, the sum of 2.4 and 7.6 equals 10. This is broken down into two parts: the whole numbers and the decimal fractions. By first adding the whole numbers (2 + 7), students get a sum of 9. Then, they add the decimal fractions (0.4 + 0.6) to get 1. Finally, combining these two sums (9 + 1) validates that the original decimals indeed total 10.

The 'Let's Try It' section of the lesson encourages hands-on practice with this concept. Students are prompted to add 6.2 and 3.8 together. They begin by adding the whole number parts (6 + 3) and then proceed to add the tenths (0.2 + 0.8). After calculating these separate sums, students combine them to confirm that the total is 10. This step-by-step approach helps reinforce their understanding of decimals and addition. To continue practicing, students are directed to workbook pages 157 to 158, where they can apply these skills in various contexts and further solidify their understanding of decimal number pairs that sum to 10.