Max Maths, Year 5, Learn together, Adding and subtracting near multiples of 10 and 100 (1)

In the Max Maths curriculum for Year 5, students learn a strategic approach to adding and subtracting near multiples of 10 and 100. This method utilises their understanding of counting in tens to simplify calculations that are close to these multiples. For example, to add 9 to a number, instead of counting up by ones, students can count up by ten and then subtract one to adjust. This technique is illustrated with the sum 34 + 9. By adding 10 to 34 to get 44 and then subtracting 1, students quickly find that 34 + 9 equals 43. This method is not only efficient but also helps students build mental arithmetic skills.

The concept is further reinforced visually using a number line and counting blocks. On the number line, students can see the process of jumping forward 10 steps from 34 to 44, and then stepping back one to land on 43. Similarly, with counting blocks, adding a block of 10 to 34 and then removing a single 1s cube makes the process tangible. These visual aids support the understanding that when adding 9, one can simply add 10 and then take away 1 to reach the correct total. This method can be applied to other near multiples of 10 and 100, making addition and subtraction tasks more accessible and less intimidating for young learners.