Functional Skills Maths: Addition (Level 1)

Add small numbers by counting on

What is Addition?

  • Addition means putting numbers together.
  • We use the + sign.
  • Example: 3 + 4 = 7.
  • You can use your fingers or objects to count.

Counting On

  • Start at the bigger number.
  • Then count on the smaller number.
  • Example: 6 + 3. Start at 6. Count on 3: 7, 8, 9.
  • The answer is 9.

Number Bonds to 10

  • Number bonds are pairs that add up to 10.
  • 1 + 9 = 10. 2 + 8 = 10. 3 + 7 = 10.
  • 4 + 6 = 10. 5 + 5 = 10.
  • Learning these helps you add faster.

Worked Examples

Example 1: 5 + 3

  1. Start at the bigger number: 5.
  2. Count on 3: 6, 7, 8.
  3. Answer: 5 + 3 = 8

Example 2: 7 + 4

  1. Start at the bigger number: 7.
  2. Count on 4: 8, 9, 10, 11.
  3. Answer: 7 + 4 = 11

Practice Questions

  • 4 + 3 = ?
    Hint: Start at 4. Count on 3: 5, 6, 7.
    Answer: 7
  • 6 + 5 = ?
    Hint: Start at 6. Count on 5: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11.
    Answer: 11
  • 8 + 2 = ?
    Hint: Number bond! 8 + 2 = 10.
    Answer: 10
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