Graphene-based metals or metal oxides commonly show outstanding electrochemical performance due to superior properties of graphene. However, it still remains a challenge to directly grow low-valence oxides (e.g. tin monoxide) on graphene surface in term of the oxidizability of graphene oxide, which is normally adopted as a precursor for graphene. Herein, we report a novel strategy for preparation of tin and tin monoxide on graphene nanosheets by selectively using the reducing agent and the precipitant. Moreover, in contrast to free particles formed in solution, nanoscale tin or tin monoxide particles well-dispersed on graphene exhibited enhanced electro-chemical properties, including higher reversible capacities, better cycle performances, and higher rate capabilities. This facile one-step method may provide an attractive alternative approach for preparation of high-performance electrodes consisting of graphene and low-valence compounds.(C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.