Here is a slightly different way at looking at addition of small numbers, suitable for children in year 3. The answer is 17, what could the two whole numbers be to make this total? Encourage working in a logical, well organised way so that children know whether they have got all the possible answers. In this case there are 9 combinations. Discuss rules that can be made up: for example is 1 + 16 the same as 16 + 1? These pages look at the totals of 17, 18, 19 and 20. Children should be encouraged to learn these off by heart, in the same way as they know the times tables. This will help later with written and mental addition. Go to Addition Number Sentences