Ben was scared to start at a new school. He did not know anyone at his new school. He wanted to make at least one friend on his first day.

10

When Ben entered his classroom all the student stared at him. He wore a red shirt with the number 10 on it. Mrs. Wren showed Ben where his desk was located, and she showed him where his locker was located. Ben put his belongings into the locker. He sat in his seat.

10

Second grade

Math

Ben sat at his seat looking around the room at the different students. Ben wanted to find someone to be his friend. 

“Today we are going to learn the Going Up Through Ten Strategy. Open up your math journals to page ten.”

Going Up Through 10 strategy

Mrs. Gwen started

math class.

“This is a subtraction strategy. When you use Ben to find your answer. I mean ten.” 

Going Up Through 10 strategy

When a subtraction problem

goes through 10, start at

smaller number and hop

to 10 first.

The lesson was on a

subtraction strategy skill.

All eyes were glued on Ben. Ben froze like a deer in head lights. 

10

“When using this strategy, use your number line. Always stop at the number ten. Ten is a friendly number. It will help you get the right answer.”

Going Up Through 10 strategy

Mrs. Gwen taught the lesson.

14-8 =

 Will you work with me?

 Will you work with me?

“Pick a partner to complete the journal page.”

Whoosh!

Ten students gathered around Ben’s desk.

Going Up Through 10 strategy

When a subtraction problem

goes through 10, start at

smaller number and hop

to 10 first.

Ben worked with Glen. Ben and Glen got all ten questions correct.

I like the number on your shirt. I am going to call you Ben Ten!

I made a friend.

10

The next day, Ben did not wear his shirt. No one worked with Ben, not even Glen.

Review Going Up Through 10 strategy

How did I have ten friends yesterday and no friends today? Do I smell? Did I brush my teeth?

Ben was confused.

He sniffed his armpit.

He checked his teeth.

What could it be?