Addition and Subtraction Foundations · Single-Digit Addition
Add single-digit numbers
Add any two single-digit numbers, from 0 + 0 to 9 + 9, including sums that cross ten.
≈ 4 min·Difficulty 2/5
Real-life hook
You score 8 points in one round and 5 in the next. That's 8 + 5 — a total that goes past ten. Here's a quick way to add any two single digits.
See it
8 + 5 = 13
The idea
You can add any two single-digit numbers (0 to 9). When the total goes over ten, 'make ten' first: fill up to 10, then add what's left. For 8 + 5, take 2 from the 5 to make 10, then add the remaining 3 to get 13.
Worked examples
8 + 5 = 13
Make ten: 8 + 2 = 10.
3 left over: 10 + 3 = 13.
6 + 3 = 9
Start from the larger, 6.
Count on 3: 7, 8, 9.
Common mistake
Watch out: Losing track when the total crosses ten, like answering 8 + 5 = 12.
Better: Make ten first: 8 + 2 = 10, then add the leftover 3 to get 13.
Use it in real life
Two snacks cost $7 and $6. Adding single digits, 7 + 6 = 13, so you'll pay $13.
Try it yourself
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Practise: Single-digit addition
Preparing your questions…
Where you'll use this
Adding two prices under $10
Totalling points from two rounds
Combining two handfuls of items
Frequently asked questions
What is single-digit addition?
Adding two numbers that are each between 0 and 9, such as 4 + 3 or 9 + 8. The totals range from 0 up to 18.
How do I add two numbers that go over ten?
Use the make-ten strategy. For 7 + 5, take 3 from the 5 to make 7 + 3 = 10, then add the remaining 2 to get 12.
What is the difference between this and addition within 10?
Addition within 10 keeps the total at 10 or less. Single-digit addition allows any two digits 0–9, so totals can go up to 18 (like 9 + 9).