1 Make the next ten
Split 7 into 2 and 5. Add 2 to reach 40, then add the remaining 5.
38 + 2 + 5 = 45Year 2
Addition • Primary Maths
Year 2 Addition
How would you add 7 to 38? Try these three methods and choose the one that makes sense to you.
38 + 7 = 45✓
Maths at a glance
See the Year 2 idea
Ones38 + 7 = 45
Tens46 + 20 = 66
Two digit27 + 35 = 62
To 10064 + 36 = 100
Try it together
Three ways to work out 38 + 7
38 + 7 = ?
2 Count on
38 → 39 → 40 → 41
→ 42 → 43 → 44 → 45
→ 42 → 43 → 44 → 45
Start at 38 and count on seven ones. Count the jumps, not the starting number.
38 + 7 = 453 Use a fact you know
8 + 7 = 15
30 + 15 = 45
30 + 15 = 45
38 is 30 and 8. Use the fact 8 + 7 = 15, then add the 30.
38 + 7 = 45Your turn
Have a go
Choose a method. Work it out on paper or with objects, then check below.
1. 27 + 6
Show answer 1
33 — Add 3 to reach 30, then add the other 3.
2. 46 + 8
Show answer 2
54 — Add 4 to reach 50, then add 4 more.
For teachers and parents
Ask, “Why did we split 7 into 2 and 5?” Let your learner point to the jump that reaches 40.
A point to check
When counting on, 39 is the first step. Counting 38 as a step gives an answer that is one too small.
Need an easier starting point?
Try 8 + 7 with counters first. Fill a ten frame, then count what is left.
Year 2 refers to the learning sequence on iLearn Maths. Year and grade labels differ around the world, so choose by the skills and examples that suit your learner.
Choose your practice
- Addition facts to 20: interactive lesson 27 · worksheet 27
- Adding across a ten: interactive lesson 33 · worksheet 33
The examples and short practice above are free to use. Full lesson and worksheet access depends on your account or subscription.
From the Year 2 pathway
Learning focus
Lesson 25Review addition facts to 10
Lesson 27Addition facts to 20
Lesson 29Number bonds to 20
Lesson 30Doubles to 20
Lesson 32Add ones to a two-digit number without crossing 10
Lesson 33Add ones to a two-digit number across 10
Key skills
What learners practise
addition facts to 10addition facts to 20number bonds to 20doubles to 20add ones to a two-digit number without crossing 10
Ready to practise Year 2 addition?
Choose a lesson from the Year 2 learning pathway.