---
title: "Number bonds to 10"
description: "Find the number that makes 10 when added to a given number from 1 to 9 (number bonds to 10)"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/number-bonds-to-10-mt_e8CZ7E5qW7
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/number-bonds-to-10-mt_e8CZ7E5qW7.md
retrieved: 2026-09-12
---

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# Number bonds to 10

Find the number that makes 10 when added to a given number from 1 to 9 (number bonds to 10)

Subject: Mathematics · Area: Addition & Subtraction · Ages 4 to 6
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/number-bonds-to-10-mt_e8CZ7E5qW7

## Ready when they can

- Given 7, respond '3' to make 10
- Use a ten-frame to find the complement to 10
- Record pairs that make 10 as equations (e.g. 6 + 4 = 10)

## Lesson: Number bonds to 10

You already split numbers into pairs. Now you will find pairs that make 10. This is called a number bond to 10.

*(drawing: 7 and 3 make 10.)*

**Example.** Ben has 6 apples. He needs 10 for a pie. He knows 6 and 4 make 10. He needs 4 more apples.

**Tip.** Try a ten-frame. Fill in what you have. Count the empty boxes. Empty boxes plus filled boxes always make 10.

*(drawing: Start at 6. Count up to 10. That is 4 hops.)*

**Recap.** Every number from 1 to 9 has a partner that makes 10.

## Practice

17 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [Numbers up to 10 into pairs](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/numbers-up-to-10-into-pairs-mt_7XcCG43ZZW)

## Opens up

- [Fluent adding and subtracting within 10](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/fluent-adding-and-subtracting-within-10-mt__we2TDqnJx)
- [Showing Your Working](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/showing-your-working-mt_nyK25mNOeR)
- [Number bonds](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/number-bonds-mt_s2mfRBoTal)
- [Adding Three Small Numbers](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/adding-three-small-numbers-mt_Zx1xZM-RbX)