Number frames help learners visualize numbers as groups, building strong number sense and mental math strategies.
When to use Number Frame blocks
Number Frame blocks work well for:- Teaching counting and one-to-one correspondence
- Demonstrating number bonds (e.g., 7 is 5 and 2 more)
- Visualizing addition and subtraction
- Building understanding of place value
- Showing subitizing patterns (recognizing quantities without counting)
Settings
Frame settings
The number of rows in the frame (1–10). A standard ten-frame has 2 rows.
The number of columns in the frame (1–10). A standard ten-frame has 5 columns.
The size of each square in the frame:
- Small: Compact squares
- Medium: Standard size
- Large: Larger squares for visibility
- Huge: Extra large squares
- Full: Maximum size
Display settings
When enabled, displays a border around each cell in the frame.
When enabled, displays the total count of filled squares.
When enabled, displays numbers in each cell of the frame.
Configuring the frame
Select which squares are filled to represent your number. You can use counters or images to fill the squares.Tips for teachers and parents
Best practices:- Use 2×5 frames (ten-frames) for foundational number sense
- Fill from left to right, top to bottom to establish consistent patterns
- Use the Show count option to reinforce the connection between visual and numeric
- Create 2×10 frames (twenty-frames) for larger numbers
- Use multiple frames to show addition or comparison
- Hide numbers initially to encourage counting and subitizing