Write the number with 3 tens and 4 ones.
- Three tens have value 30.
- Add the four ones: 30 + 4.
Answer: 34
Tens and Ones Worksheets for 1st Grade
Identify the tens and ones place in two-digit numbers.
Learn the skill
Understanding tens and ones
Ten ones can be bundled into one ten. In a two-digit number, the left digit counts tens and the right digit counts leftover ones. The place tells the value of each digit.
A method you can use
- Group objects into bundles of ten.
- Count the tens first, then the unbundled ones.
- Write the number as tens plus ones and connect it to the two digits.
Worked examples
How many tens and ones are in 60?
- The digit 6 is in the tens place.
- The zero shows there are no leftover ones.
Answer: 6 tens and 0 ones
Regroup 2 tens and 13 ones.
- Trade ten of the thirteen ones for another ten.
- There are now three tens and three ones.
Answer: 33
Try it yourself
Solve these before opening the answers. The printable sets below give you more practice.
1. Write 4 tens and 7 ones as a number.
Show answer and explanation
47
40 + 7 = 47.
2. How many tens and ones are in 52?
Show answer and explanation
5 tens and 2 ones
The 5 has value 50; the 2 has value 2.
About Tens and Ones
Place value is the idea that a digit's value depends on its position within a number. The "3" in 30 is worth ten times more than the "3" in 3. This concept is the backbone of our entire number system and is essential for understanding how multi-digit numbers work.
Place value is the backbone of our number system. Understanding tens and ones makes addition, subtraction, and working with larger numbers much easier.
What Your Child Will Learn
- Break two-digit numbers into tens and ones
- Write numbers in expanded form
- Understand that the position of a digit determines its value
- Model two-digit numbers with base-ten blocks
- Compare two-digit numbers using their tens and ones digits
Worksheets by Difficulty
Start with Easy worksheets to build confidence, then progress to Medium and Hard as your student masters each level.
Understanding the Difficulty Levels
Worksheets 1-3 are Easy level — designed to build confidence with simpler numbers and straightforward problem types. Great for introducing the concept or reviewing basics.
Worksheets 4-7 are Medium level — offering a moderate challenge with larger numbers, varied question types, and more problems per worksheet.
Worksheets 8-10 are Hard level — featuring the most challenging problems including multi-step questions, missing values, and real-world applications.
Tips for Parents & Teachers
1
Use physical bundles: group 10 pennies, straws, or blocks together and call them "one ten." Then show 3 tens and 4 ones to represent 34.
2
Play "build the number" — say a number and have your child show it with tens and ones using objects or drawings.
3
When your child sees a two-digit number, ask: "How many tens? How many ones?" until it becomes automatic.
4
Connect to money: a dime is worth 10 pennies, which is a perfect real-world model of tens and ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will my child learn from tens and ones worksheets?
These 1st Grade tens and ones worksheets help students practice place value, number sense. Each worksheet provides structured practice with clear instructions and varied problem types.
How often should my 1st Grade student practice tens and ones?
Consistent practice works best. We recommend 10-15 minutes of focused practice 3-4 times per week. Start with Easy worksheets and progress to Medium and Hard as your student builds confidence.
Are these tens and ones worksheets free to print?
Yes, all 1st Grade tens and ones worksheets on K12Worksheets are completely free. You can download and print as many as you need for home or classroom use — no signup required. Each worksheet includes a printable answer key on a separate page.
How do I know which tens and ones worksheet to start with?
Begin with the Easy worksheets (Worksheets 1–3) to assess your student's current skill level. If they complete these confidently, move to Medium (Worksheets 4–7). Reserve Hard worksheets (Worksheets 8–10) for students who have mastered the basics. If your student struggles with Easy worksheets, revisit prerequisite topics first.