subtraction problem solving tasks

• Grades 6-12
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40 Subtraction Activities That Are Nothing Less Than Awesome

Your students will love these hands-on ideas.

Learning subtraction takes practice, just like any math skill. So it’s a good idea to have a whole collection of clever subtraction activities in your toolbox. These are some of our favorites for the classroom or to send home with students to practice at home.

1. Start with an anchor chart

Anchor charts give kids something to refer back to as they work on new concepts and skills. We like this subtraction anchor chart for all the details it provides.

Learn more: Mini Math Anchor Charts at Lucky Little Learners

2. Read books about subtraction

Read-alouds are such a fun way to introduce new math concepts to kids. There are lots of great books to work into your subtraction activities, like our perennial favorite Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons .

Learn more: Teaching Subtraction at A Pinch of Kinder

3. Count Pete’s buttons

If your students love the book, try this idea that incorporates real buttons into subtraction practice. So fun!

Learn more: Pete the Cat Button Activities at Inspiration Laboratories

4. Climb the monkey tree

Five Little Monkeys is another beloved book with math concepts worked right into the story. Build your own tree for monkeys to climb, or use a doll bed for jumping!

Learn more: Fun With Subtraction at Mrs. Ricca’s Kindergarten

5. Try story problems

One of the best ways to make math meaningful for students is by teaching them how to solve story problems. When they see math in real-world scenarios, it helps numbers make sense in their minds. ADVERTISEMENT

Learn more: Tips for Teaching Subtraction at Miss Kindergarten

6. Introduce different strategies

Give kids plenty of strategies for understanding subtraction. They can use these when working on subtraction activities and exercises.

Learn more: Addition and Subtraction Activities at Proud To Be Primary

7. Count with bears

Using manipulatives is a great first strategy to use. It is concrete and students can really see what it means to subtract and take away from something.

Learn more: Subtraction Activities for First Grade at Susan Jones Teaching

8. Smash some Play-Doh

For some reason, kids simply love to smash stuff! Roll balls of Play-Doh and let kids smoosh them as they subtract. ( Find more ways to use Play-Doh for learning here. )

Learn more: Play Dough Subtraction Smash at Mama Papa Bubba

9. Whack-a-ball to subtract

Here’s another subtraction activity that lets kids burn off some energy. Make a 3D 10-frame by cutting holes in a shoebox. Rest Ping-Pong balls on the holes, then whack them with a toy hammer to subtract.

Learn more: Subtraction Activities at Planning Playtime

10. Feed a hungry penguin

This hungry penguin is here to help your students learn how to subtract! Feed him paper fishies and write out the equations.

Learn more: Penguin Subtraction at Natalie Lynn Kindergarten

11. Visualize the problem

Subtraction activities like story problems are easier when kids can visualize the action. Try drawing pictures or acting out the story to make the concept real.

Learn more: Subtraction Activities at Susan Jones Teaching

12. Sort flash cards

Label a row of paper bags 1 to 10, then sort flash cards into the correct bags. Make it a timed exercise and have two teams race to see who’s the fastest (and most accurate)!

Learn more: Subtraction: In the Bag at The Kindergarten Smorgasboard

13. Bowl and subtract

This is one of the most popular subtraction activities out there. Kids bowl, knock down pins, and subtract them from the total. This is too much fun to be learning, right?

Learn more: Subtraction Bowling at A Pinch of Kinder

14. Roll and Race

Students roll a die and match the number to the column on their game board. Then they solve the first available problem, either coloring in or covering the space with a manipulative. The first player to the top of a column wins.

Learn more: Roll and Race at The Printable Princess

15. Have a LEGO subtraction race

Each person starts with a stack of LEGO bricks. Roll the die and take away the number shown, stating the equation out loud each time. First to zero wins!

Learn more: LEGO Subtraction Game at The Kindergarten Connection

16. Find the key to the lock

Invest in a set of locks that you can use for all kinds of things, including subtraction activities. These 8-packs from Amazon come in a variety of colors and should last for years.

Learn more: Locks and Keys in Kindergarten at Differentiated Kindergarten

17. Use LEGO bricks for double digits

Ready to talk about “borrowing” and double-digit math? Make the concept easier by using LEGO bricks.

Learn more: Double Digit Addition and Subtraction at Real Life at Home

18. Grab a Hula-Hoop

Start by tossing beanbags and seeing how many you can get into the hoop. Then, turn the results into subtraction equations.

Learn more: Bean Bags Addition and Subtraction at Education Above All

19. Ask “How many am I hiding?”

Subtraction activities like this one are a fun way to introduce the idea to little learners. Start by laying a few small objects on a table. Next, cover some with your hand. Then, ask how many are left and how many you’re hiding. Simple but effective.

Learn more: Math Game at PreKinders

20. Stack cups

Kids get such a kick out of stacking cups. Work subtraction practice into the mix by labeling the cups with equations and solutions, then challenge students to stack the cups to show the right answers.

Learn more: Addition and Subtraction Cups at The Kindergarten Smorgasboard

21. Use pool noodles and gophers

Your students will love this fun activity that builds math skills with puppets. Pop these darling gophers on a stick into the pool noodle, then take a few away to solve the problem.

Learn more: Subtraction Game at Planning Playtime

22. Solve and play bingo

First, kids work out the correct answers to the two-digit subtraction problems on this free printable. Then, they cut them out and paste them onto their bingo board. Finally, play a game of bingo together!

Learn more: Bingo at Grade School Giggles

23. Play gumball unscramble

Pull a subtraction card, then use the four digits in the gumball machine to create a number sentence that equals the solution at the bottom of the equation.

Learn more: Gumball Unscramble at Teaching With Jillian Starr

24. Toss some beanbags

Write a grid of randomized numbers on the sidewalk (or tape one off on your classroom floor). A student tosses two bean bags onto numbers, then makes a subtraction equation out of their results.

Learn more: Sidewalk Chalk Subtraction at Education.com

25. Use a zipper slider bag

A zipper bag number line? Genius! This clever idea is a useful tool for lots of subtraction activities. ( Check out more number line ideas here. )

Learn more: Ziplock Slider Bag Number Lines at Mrs. T’s First Grade Class

26. Slide beads on pipe cleaners

Make some handy math manipulatives with pipe cleaners and beads. Slide the beads to see subtraction equations in action!

Learn more: Beaded Number Rods at Tips and Ideas From Anne Gardner

27. Build a wrecking ball

One more chance to create a little mayhem! Similar to the bowling activity above, kids stack a number of blocks, then knock them down and see how many remain. Noisy, but fun!

Learn more: Wrecking Ball Subtraction at Math Geek Mama

28. Learn the subtraction rhymes

These rhymes will aid kids working on more advanced subtraction activities, helping them remember when they need to “borrow” from the next place value column—and when they don’t.

Learn more: Subtraction With Regrouping at Amy Lemons

29. Play subtraction “around the world”

Have your class sit in a circle on the floor and invite a student to stand behind one of their classmates. Then provide a subtraction equation for these two students to solve (flash cards work great for this game). The first student to answer wins that round and then travels to the next student in the circle. The object of the game is to make it all the way around.

Learn more: Subtraction Activities at Prodigy

30. Play a Dr. Seuss math game

This interactive game is the perfect way to reinforce basic addition and subtraction facts for numbers 0 to 5 for your young students. Check out the free download!

Learn more: Free Addition and Subtraction Game to Practice Making Numbers 0 to 5

31. Sing a subtraction song about pirates

What sillier way to learn subtraction than with pirates? This short, funny video introduces basic concepts, then walks through a few subtraction problems.

Learn more: Harry Kindergarten Music

32. Teach fact families

Fact families are the foundation for both addition and subtraction skills (and later, multiplication and division as well). Learn more about ways to reinforce fact family concepts at the link below.

Learn more: Power Up Your Students’ Math Fluency With Fact Families

33. Try a round of French Fry Subtraction

Your students will love this “fast food” math activity. All you need to make this fun game is red construction paper for the french fry box and yellow construction paper for the french fries. You can then use flash cards or a worksheet for the subtraction problems.

Learn more: French Fry Subtraction at The Kindergarten Smorgasboard

34. Teach your students to use a rekenrek

According to the author of this blog, the rekenrek is one of the best math manipulatives around. Made up of rows of 10 plastic beads each, a rekenrek is designed to build an understanding of the 5-structure and 10-structure of numbers. Every row has five white beads and five red beads, providing a visual model of how numbers are composed. The rekenrek is a perfect hands-on way for students who struggle with the addition and subtraction of larger numbers.

Learn more: Why the Rekenrek Is My Go-To Math Manipulative

35. Play Plus 1 Minus 1

Number fluency requires knowing your numbers forward and backward. Plus 1 Minus 1 is an easy math game that reinforces the concepts of adding 1 to a number and subtracting 1 from a number. All you need is a rule sheet and a deck of cards!

Learn more: Plus 1 Minus 1 at Creative Family Fun

36. Tally up gains and losses

For this fun game, each player starts with 15 points. Player one flips a card (remove face cards or assign them point values first). If the card is black, they add it to their total. If it’s red, they subtract it. Highest point total when all the cards are gone wins! Get a free printable worksheet to use with this game at the link.

Learn more: My Teaching Spirit at Teachers Pay Teachers

37. Play a game of Subtract It!

To begin, download the free Subtract It mat at the link below. Then, give each student a mat, a stack of subtraction flash cards, and manipulative items of your choice (like the rocks above). In the example above, students would put six rocks in the green box, then move four down to the blue, then transfer the remaining two to the yellow.

Learn more: Subtract It! at Confessions of a Homeschooler

38. Count bugs!

To begin, download the adorable, free bug subtraction cards from the link below and laminate them. To practice, students will take a card, count the total spots on the critter, and write that number in the first box. Next, they will count only the spots that are crossed out and write that number in the second box. Finally, they will count the un-crossed numbers to get the answer!

Learn more: Bug Subtraction Cards at The Kindergarten Connection

39. Count lily pad frogs

Hop to it with this fun subtraction activity! The lily pads are made from green foam sheet and the plastic frogs come from a craft store. Each lily pad has a subtraction problem written on it. Students will place the same number of frogs as the first number in the problem on the lily pad. Then, they’ll take away the second number. Give each student a tracking sheet to write their subtraction problems on.

Learn more: Lily Pad Math at No Time for Flash Cards

40. Use subtraction monster mats

These adorable little monsters make learning subtraction fun! Download the free template below.

Learn more: Monster Subtraction Mats at Fun Learning for Kids

Looking for more elementary math ideas? Check out these activities for teaching addition , multiplication , and division .

Plus, awesome websites for teaching and learning math ..

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38 Subtraction Activities For Elementary: Games, Worksheets, And Challenges

December 13, 2023 //  by  Kellie Tanner

Are your kids struggling with subtraction? Finding the number that is left when another number is taken away can be a very challenging skill for students to master, but subtraction is an essential part of developing mathematical fluency. The key is to hook your kids with fun activities that will help them understand and strengthen their subtraction skills. So resist using that next worksheet and make math fun by choosing from our list of 38 super subtraction activities!

1. Get Off My Boat Subtraction Game

Your kiddos will make waves with this engaging subtraction activity that also gets them moving! Use tape to make a boat on your classroom floor and then place a few of your students on the boat. Have the rest of the class class count them and then remove some sailors from the boat to show subtraction! 

Learn More: The Kindergarten Smorgasboard

2. Penguin Subtraction

This adorable hands-on subtraction activity provides lots of fun for your kiddies. The subtraction mat can be used with whole groups or as independent work in math centers. You can assign your students numbers or have them choose the number of fish to start.

Learn More: Natalie Lynn Kindergarten

3. Locks And Keys Subtraction

Increase student engagement with locks and keys; it’ll even improve your little mathematicians’ fine motor skills! Simply label some locks with numbers and the keys with subtraction equations and let them work to solve the equations and open each lock with the correct key. This clever idea is sure to become a favorite instructional tool in your classroom!

Learn More: Differentiated Kindergarten

4. Pete The Cat Subtraction

Your students will demonstrate subtraction success with this Pete the Cat subtraction activity! Read Pete The Cat and His 4 Groovy Buttons and use it to inspire them to create this cute craft. Let them decide the number of Pete’s buttons that are going to pop off and have them write a number sentence to match. 

Learn More: Kroger’s Kindergarten

5. How Many Am I Hiding?

This is the cutest activity for teaching subtraction to your younger learners! You can use any small object, but these plastic ants work perfectly. Begin the game with a certain number of ants and then cover up some with your hand. Next, have your kids tell you how many ants you are hiding. 

Learn More: Pre Kinders

6. Subtraction Bowling

Your children will love playing this awesome subtraction bowling game ! Begin with ten toilet paper rolls and let the games begin. They’ll take turns rolling a ball to knock down pins and then record the number that was taken away to make subtraction sentences as they play!

Learn More: Planning Playtime

7. Silly Monster Subtraction Mat

These silly monster subtraction mats are a favorite subtraction activity among preschoolers and kindergartners. They are also simple to use and a terrific addition to your math centers. Add some googly eyes to the monsters to make this activity a sure hit for your kiddos!

Learn More: Fun Learning For Kids

8. Beaded Number Rods

This hands-on and engaging subtraction activity is tons of fun for your little ones! Not only that, but the supplies needed for this activity are minimal and inexpensive. All your kids need to do to start understanding subtraction is simply slide the colorful beads off the stick! 

Learn More: Tips And Ideas From Anne Gardner

9. In The Bag Subtraction

This low-prep activity is engaging, fun, and hands-on! It is also great for math centers, and it can be easily differentiated for your learners. Just have them choose one of the subtraction flashcards, solve the equation, and then put the card in the bag that shows the correct answer!

10. Lily Pad Subtraction

This is one of the cutest elementary math ideas! Use these plastic frogs and lily pad math manipulatives to teach your children how to subtract. You can create this subtraction activity inexpensively and very quickly.

Learn More: No Time For Flashcards

11. Goldfish Subtraction Mat

This cute subtraction work mat is great for teaching your kiddos to practice subtracting from 20. They’ll love using goldfish crackers and the free printable to have fun while learning how to subtract. Use this activity for extra practice in math centers or for an educational snack break!

Learn More: 123 Homeschool 4 Me

12. Loose Tooth Subtraction

Children love talking about their new loose teeth and they’ll certainly be curious about this activity! Start by giving each of your students a picture of a child who has ten teeth. They’ll roll a die, blackout that number of teeth, and then write the subtraction equation at the bottom. 

Learn More: Heidi Songs

13. Football Subtraction

It’s time for kickoff! This activity is perfect for your little football fans and can be used in math centers, small groups, and partner work. Print the activity, cut out the field goal and football cards, and they’ll be ready to match the subtraction number sentences to the correct answer! 

Learn More: Kindergarten Connection

14. Love Monster Subtraction

Love Monster Subtraction is a fun, hands-on activity that keeps your kiddies engaged as they practice subtraction skills within 10. These adorable mats can be used with different manipulatives and are a wonderful addition to your classroom math centers, especially on Valentine’s Day!

15. Double-Digit Subtraction Card Game

This subtraction activity incorporates playing cards to provide extra practice with double-digit subtraction problems. You’ll only need the ace card and cards 2-9 for this subtraction practice activity. Your students will love rearranging four cards to find the difference between them.

Learn More: Line Upon Line Learning

16. Knock Over Dominoes Subtraction

This classic game can also be used as a math tool! Your kids will be hooked as they read the problem on the subtraction card, set up the appropriate number of dominoes, and then knock down the correct number to see the difference left standing! This is excellent for providing visual support for your struggling learners.

17. Cupcake Subtraction

Begin this lesson by reading aloud Pete the Cat and the Missing Cupcakes . Then have your kiddos make this cute hands-on subtraction activity by encouraging them to create their own subtraction problem that shows how many cupcakes went missing! This one is sure to leave a sweet taste for subtraction!

Learn More: Primary Playground

18. Hungry Monster Subtraction

Your kiddos will enjoy feeding the hungry monsters in this subtraction activity! All you’ll need is the monster printable, hair gel, ten buttons, a dice, and a plastic bag. This activity is great for practicing foundational math skills, and it also serves as a terrific sensory activity !

19. Sticky Note Haircut Math

Calling all little hair stylists! This subtraction activity is loads of fun and much more interactive than a typical worksheet. Your learners will love cutting the number of sticky note hairs off their paper to match each subtraction equation!

Learn More: Instagram

20. Action Of Subtraction

Read-alouds are a great way to teach your kiddos some new skills, and The Action of Subtraction is no exception! Gather your class on the carpet for a fun-filled, rhyming story all about the meaning of subtraction!

Learn More: Amazon

21. Decomposing Numbers

This one is great for the visual learners in your class. To prep this activity, print or draw out two little circles connected to one larger circle. Then, your mathematicians can use cubes or beans to practice decomposing total amounts into smaller parts. To make it more challenging, have them write equations to match their visuals!

Learn More: Little Miss Kindergarten

22. Picture Subtraction

Have little prep time and need some simple subtraction practice for your young learners? Check out this worksheet that provides pictures of different subtraction problems. Demonstrate how to cross out the subtracted amount from each picture group or let them use dot markers to make it even more fun!

Learn More: Math Worksheets 4 Kids

23. Race To The Moon

Race to the Moon is an out-of-this-world game for your children on their way to learning how to subtract! Have them partner up and take turns choosing a problem to solve. If they answer correctly, they get to cover the tile. The first one to create a path to the moon wins!

Learn More: Math Salamanders

 24. Roll It, Solve It, Color It

Adding games to your math routine is sure to help your students master the basics! For this fun activity, they’ll take turns rolling dice, solving the corresponding equation, and covering the answer with a coin or cube. The challenge is to get five in a row to be crowned subtraction champion!

Learn More: This Reading Mama

25. One More, One Less

One fish, two fish, one more, one less! This activity allows your young mathematicians to practice numeric order by first drawing a number card and then illustrating it using little fish and number manipulatives to show the number and the numbers that are one less and one more.

Learn More: Fantastic Fun And Learning

26. Find The Difference

Your kiddos will enjoy making towers to practice subtraction! All you need are some cubes or legos, dice, and recording sheets. Have them work with a partner and take turns rolling dice to build towers that show that number. They’ll compare their towers, find the difference, and write a number subtraction number sentence!

Learn More: Frugal Fun 4 Boys

27. Subtraction Smash

Everyone loves squishing Play-Doh and this subtraction activity is certain to be a smash! Just print and laminate the activity templates, and give your kiddies Play-Doh and dice. They’ll roll a number, form Play-Doh balls to show that number, and then smash one before answering how many are left. 

Learn More: Recipe For Teaching

28. Miss Sally Subtraction Anchor Chart

Bring the concept of subtraction to life by creating a Ms. Sally Subtraction anchor chart! By hanging this DIY poster in your classroom, your students will have a visual reference when practicing their subtraction skills. Don’t forget to include key vocabulary and a few different subtraction strategies!

Learn More: Pinterest

29. Play-Doh Subtraction

Here’s another Play-Doh game, but this time your kiddos will get some squishy subtraction practice using a number line! Create one on the floor or table using masking tape and then give them some subtraction problems. They’ll have a blast using their feet or hands to squish the amount being subtracted!

Learn More: There’s Just One Mommy

30. Subtraction To Zero

This game requires zero prep and all you need is a deck of cards! Each of your kids will start at 100 and will take turns drawing a card from the pile to subtract. Draw a nine, they’re at 91. If they then draw a four, they’re down to 87! The first player to get to zero wins!

Learn More: Shelley Gray Teaching

31. Act It Out

Kinesthetic learning is great for helping your children understand number concepts, and it also happens to be loads of fun! Write a subtraction problem on the board and have them role-play the equation. For example, ten students standing in a line with seven of them sitting brings 10-7= 3 to life!

Learn More: The Mailbox

32. Bee Number Bonds

Number bonds are a great way to visually show the concept of subtraction to your young learners. Print and laminate the bee bond cards, and have them practice filling in the missing number with a dry-erase marker. This activity bee-autifully shows the relationship between subtraction and addition!

Learn More: Frogs And Fairies

33. Subtraction Facts Dotting Game

Once your learners have grasped the basics of subtraction, challenge them to match the correct equation to a given answer. The wheels in their brains will turn as they try to find all the subtraction bubbles that represent the same difference. Have them use dot markers to make this even more engaging!

Learn More: The Measured Mom

34. Chick Subtraction

This is perfect for your kiddos who need repetitive subtraction practice. Print the chick pictures on different colored paper, cut out the number sentence pieces, and put them in a baggy. Then, have yoru learners order the equations, match these to the correct picture, and record their subtraction sentences on the worksheet!

Learn More: Day With Bee

35. Subtraction Board Game

Tired of flashcards? This board game puts a fun spin on memorizing subtraction facts! Your kids will move a game piece to the number that reflects the answer to different subtraction problems. They’ll be having so much fun playing this game, they won’t even realize they’re doing math work!

Learn More: A Sunny Day In First Grade

36. Monkey Math Games

Here is another fun printable board game that your mathematicians in training will adore! They’ll take turns monkeying around by rolling dice to move the number of spaces shown. If they correctly solve the subtraction problem on which they land, they get to roll again!

37. Subtraction Cootie Catchers

What kid doesn’t love cootie catchers? Not only is this activity fun to make, but your students will have a great time playing with the finished product over and over again! This cootie catcher uses numerals, tally marks, and ten frames to ensure they master their number sense!

38. Subtraction Cup Stacking Challenge

This is another great hands-on activity that provides excellent visual support to help your children sharpen their math fluency. They’ll stack cups in a particular arrangement to reflect the answers to subtraction problems shown on their worksheets. This one also comes in three levels making it easy to differentiate!

Learn More: Forward With Fun

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15 Easy Prep Activities to Teach Subtraction

• Madison Patten
• October 6, 2021
• No Comments

Looking for fun and engaging easy prep activities to help your students master subtraction? What are some of the best ways to teach this fundamental math skill without putting them to sleep? Sure, you can spend hours searching the internet and reinventing the wheel…or you can check out our list of 15 easy prep subtraction activities.  My students are obsessed with number #9!

Subtraction Activities with Dice

1 – Roll & Subtract

Students enjoy playing with dice, and they can make any lesson more fun and engaging. Give each student one die and one copy of the Roll & Subtract recording sheet. Students will roll the dice to find out which subtraction problems they need to solve. For example, if they roll a 3, they should answer the first subtraction problem in column 3 before rolling their die again.

2 – Roll to Zero

This activity can be played with a partner. They will need a 100 chart, two different colored crayons, and a pair of dice. Partners will start at 100 on the chart, take turns rolling the dice, and subtracting their roll from the current number. For example, if the first roll is a 4, they will subtract 4 from 100 to give them 96. Each time they subtract, that player will color in the number tile they ended on, and the next player repeats this process from where their partner left off until they reach 0. You can even put this worksheet into a page protector with two different dry erase markers, and students can play during centers or as a finisher activity.

3 – Roll, Draw, & Subtract

Give each student a whiteboard, dry erase marker, and 2 dice. They will roll both dice to determine how many circles should be drawn on the whiteboard. Next, they will roll one die to determine how many circles should be subtracted from the model. The student will then demonstrate removing objects by crossing out the same number of circles as shown on the die. They will count to find the difference and write the answer on the whiteboard. This is a quick, no-prep activity that can be played as a fast finisher activity.

4 –  Roll & Subtract (Even or Odd)

This is a quick and easy easy-prep activity. Grab 2 dice and the recording sheet. They will roll two dice, recording the larger number first, followed by the smaller number. They will then subtract the smaller number from the larger number to find the difference and determine whether the difference is even or odd.

5 –  Roll, Build, & Subtract

Toss out the old math fact worksheets and start to incorporate manipulatives to get students excited about learning! They will need 1 die, 12 individual counting cubes, and a Roll, Build, & Subtract recording sheet. They will roll the die and build a tower with the corresponding number of counting cubes. Repeat this process a second time and place both towers on the recording sheet with the taller tower in front. Then count and record the number of cubes in each tower and subtract to find the difference.

Easy Prep Subtraction Activities with Cubes

6 – subtraction bowling.

For this no-prep activity, you will need 10 or more counting cubes, 1 die, a whiteboard, and a dry erase marker. They will set up the counting cubes in a pyramid formation (like when bowling) and write the number sentence  10 – __ = __  on their whiteboard. Next, they will carefully roll the die to knock away some of the counting cubes. They will then determine the number of cubes left standing and write that number in their number sentence. The student will subtract to determine how many counting cubes were knocked out of place. 

7 – Cube Word Problems

Instead of just handing out word problems, try incorporating manipulatives to increase student engagement. All they will need are counting cubes and a recording sheet. They will read the word problem and model with counting cubes in the space provided. Students will use their model to write the number sentence that matches and determine the difference. This is an activity that can be completed independently during math centers or as a fast finishers activity.

8 – How Many Are Missing?

Cubes are a great manipulative to use when teaching subtraction. Grab a whiteboard, dry erase marker, 10 counting cubes, and an empty cup. They will lay out the counting cubes on the table and write the number sentence  10 – __ = __  on their whiteboard. Next, they will pick up the cup, close their eyes, and cover some of the cubes. The student will then count the remaining cubes, write the corresponding number in their number sentence, and subtract to determine how many cubes are missing. This can easily be turned into a multi-player game by taking turns and having the partner take away cubes instead of using an empty cup.

Subtraction Activities with Bears

9 – Bear Word Problems

For this fun and simple, easy-prep activity, students will need teddy bear counters and a recording sheet. They will read the word problem and model with teddy bear counters or draw bears to match the story problem in the space provided. Students will use their model to fill in the number sentence and subtract to solve for the difference.

10 – Bears in a Cave

This easy prep subtraction activity can be played with a partner. One student will act as the “storyteller,” and the other will solve the problem. They will need teddy bear counters, a number bond work mat, and a dry erase marker. The students will count to determine how many bears there are and write that number in the correct space on the number bond. Next, the “storyteller” will announce how many bears walked into the cave and remove those bears from the table. The “problem solver” will use this information to complete the number bond and subtract to determine how many bears are left.

11 – Teddy Bear Tumble

Using 10 bear counters, a cup, a whiteboard, and a dry erase marker, students will tip over the cup until some of the bears tumble out. Next, they will use the whiteboard to write the number sentence that matches the model. For example, if they have 10 bears in the cup and 4 bears tumble out, their number sentence should show  10 – 4 = __.  Then they will subtract to determine how many bears are still in the cup.

Other Activities

12 – what is the equation.

Can your students solve the mystery? For this easy-prep activity, they will need a pencil, and the What is the Equation worksheet. The students are given the difference, but the equation is missing. They must work hard to come up with the missing equation that equals the difference. This is a fun and engaging activity to use for fast finishers as students can challenge themselves by thinking of more than one equation. 

13 – Color by Number

This is an easy-prep activity that students will be excited to complete independently. All they will need is a Color by Number subtraction worksheet and a box of crayons. Students will work to solve the subtraction problems and write their answers in the space provided. Then, they will use the key at the bottom of the page to color the worksheet and reveal the hidden pictures.

14 – Subtraction War

Here is a fun way to incorporate playing cards into math centers. The students will need a deck of playing cards (no face cards), a whiteboard, and a dry erase marker. Be sure that all face cards have been removed and the deck split into two even piles. Each student will write the number sentence 10 – __ = __  on their whiteboard to help them solve each equation. Next, they will turn over the top card on their deck, complete their number sentence, and solve for the difference. The student with the largest number will collect both cards, and the person with the most cards at the end wins.

15 – Subtraction True or False?

Do your students know their stuff? Test their subtraction skills with this fun and engaging activity. They will need 1 blue crayon, 1 green crayon, and the Subtraction True or False worksheet. Students will use mental math, pictures, or the math manipulatives of their choice to determine which number sentences are true and false. They will color the correct number sentences blue and the false number sentences green. This is the perfect resource for fast finishers as they can complete the activity independently.

There are countless ways to get your students excited about learning subtraction without spending hours on prep time or attempting to reinvent the wheel. By incorporating different math manipulatives and turning lessons into games, students will be begging to learn more. You can introduce any of these 15 easy prep activities into your lessons and math centers tomorrow. Just print out the worksheet and gather any required materials and you are all set. Do you know any easy or no-prep subtraction activities that didn’t make our list? Feel free to share them with us so we can grow this list to 15 activities!

Written by – Madison Patten

At  Education to the Core , we exist to help our teachers build a stronger classroom as they connect with our community to find trusted, state-of-the-art resources designed by teachers for teachers. We aspire to be the world’s leading & most trusted community for educational resources for teachers. We improve the lives of every teacher and learner with the most comprehensive, reliable, and inclusive educational resources.

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18 Subtraction Activities That Are Nothing Less Than Awesome

Introduction:

Subtraction is a fundamental mathematical concept that every child needs to master. However, teaching subtraction can sometimes be challenging and monotonous. To make learning subtraction more engaging and enjoyable, we have compiled a list of 18 subtraction activities that are not only fun but also highly effective in reinforcing this essential skill. These activities are designed to cater to various learning styles and make subtraction a breeze for young learners. So, let’s dive into the world of subtraction and discover some awesome activities!

• Number Line Hopscotch:

Create a giant number line on the floor using masking tape. Children can take turns hopping on the number line to solve subtraction problems. This activity helps them visualize subtraction as a movement backward on the number line.

• Subtraction Bingo:

Create bingo cards with subtraction problems instead of numbers. Call out the answers, and children mark the corresponding subtraction problem on their cards. This game enhances subtraction fluency while adding an element of excitement.

• Subtraction War:

Divide a deck of cards evenly among two players. Each player flips two cards and subtracts the smaller number from the larger one. The player with the highest difference wins the round. This competitive game adds a thrilling aspect to practicing subtraction.

• Counting Backward with Toys:

Encourage children to use their favorite toys or objects for this activity. Start with a certain number of toys and ask them to subtract a specific number of toys. They physically remove the toys one by one, reinforcing the concept of subtraction through hands-on experience.

• Subtraction Story Problems:

Present subtraction problems as relatable story scenarios. For example, “Sara had 8 apples, and she gave away 3. How many apples does she have left?” This approach helps children connect subtraction to real-life situations, making it more meaningful.

• Subtraction Dice Game:

Roll two dice and subtract the smaller number from the larger one. Children can keep track of their score on a game board. This game promotes mental math skills and quick thinking.

• Human Number Line:

Create a human number line by placing markers on the ground and having children stand in numerical order. Give them subtraction problems to solve by physically moving backward on the number line. This kinesthetic activity reinforces the concept of subtraction through movement.

• Subtraction Race:

Set up a subtraction race where children solve subtraction problems at different stations. Each correct answer allows them to move forward. The first one to reach the finish line wins. This activity combines subtraction practice with physical activity.

• Subtraction Puzzles:

Create puzzles with subtraction problems and their corresponding answers. Children have to match the problem with the correct solution to complete the puzzle, making subtraction a puzzle-solving adventure.

• Subtraction Flashcards:

Use flashcards with subtraction problems and have children solve them quickly. This activity improves fluency and builds automaticity in subtraction.

• Subtraction Art:

Combine art and subtraction by providing children with a drawing or coloring activity. Each step requires them to subtract a specific quantity, adding a creative twist to subtraction practice.

• Subtraction Scavenger Hunt:

Hide objects around the house or classroom and give children subtraction problems. They have to find and subtract the correct number of objects. This activity promotes problem-solving skills and exploration.

• Subtraction Bowling:

Label bowling pins with numbers and have children roll a ball to knock down the pins. After each roll, they subtract the number of pins knocked down from the initial number. This game turns subtraction into a bowling adventure.

• Subtraction Relay Race:

Divide children into teams and set up a relay race course. Each team member solves a subtraction problem before passing the baton to the next team member. This activity combines cooperation and subtraction skills.

• Subtraction Balloon Pop:

Write subtraction problems on balloons and hang them up. Children solve the problems and pop the balloons to reveal the correct answers. This interactive activity adds a sense of excitement to subtraction practice.

• Subtraction Card Match:

Create pairs of cards with subtraction problems and their solutions. Children have to match the problem card with the corresponding solution card, strengthening their understanding of subtraction.

• Subtraction Word Problems:

Present subtraction problems in the form of word problems, incorporating everyday scenarios that children can relate to. This approach helps children apply subtraction to real-life situations and develop problem-solving skills.

• Subtraction App or Online Game:

Explore educational apps or online games that specifically focus on subtraction. These interactive resources provide a technology-driven approach to subtraction practice.

Conclusion:

Learning subtraction doesn’t have to be mundane. By incorporating these 18 subtraction activities into your teaching or learning routine, you can make subtraction more enjoyable and engaging for young learners. From interactive games to hands-on experiences, these activities cater to various learning styles and help children develop a

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18 Engaging Subtraction Activities for Early Elementary Students 

Kids will love these creative ways to practice their subtraction skills .

Table of Contents

Sticks and Dice

Playdough Smash

Drive and Subtract  

Flashcard Toss

Subtraction Bowling

Hide and Subtract

Roll to Zero

Snack Subtraction  

Cooking Math  

Calendar Countdown

Budget Shopping

Are We There Yet?

Temperature Tracking  

Step Counting

Subtraction Videos and Songs

Online Subtraction Games

Kindergarten Math Worksheets

With counting skills under their belt, students are ready to tackle arithmetic like addition and subtraction. Of the two, subtraction can sometimes be a little trickier for many kids. Help solidify their understanding of subtraction with fun, hands-on practice. Try some of these activities with your preschool through second grade students. 

Before You Start: Before learning subtraction, kids need to feel comfortable with foundational skills like counting backwards, greater than and less than, and even basic addition. Discover more by reading How to Teach Subtraction . When using these hands-on activities, remember that younger children will need to work with smaller numbers . Swap out the numbers used in the examples to suit your child’s learning level.

Easy Subtraction Activities

You probably have everything you need for these subtraction activities and games on hand already, so you can start practicing anytime! 

1. Sticks and Dice  

Give your child a stack of wood craft sticks (10 is a good place to start). Roll a die and remove that number of sticks from the stack. Write out the equation and determine how many sticks are left. Repeat until all the sticks are gone. You can play this game with any number of sticks and roll two dice to practice more challenging equations. 

Example: There are 10 sticks in the pile. The die lands on 3. Take 3 sticks away and count the ones that are left. Then write out the equation: 10 – 3 = 7. 

2. Playdough Smash

Roll up several balls of playdough and set them out for your child. Count the number of playdough balls and then ask your child to smash, smoosh, or flatten a certain number of them. Then ask them to count how many playdough balls they have left and write out the equation. 

Example: Example: Roll 9 balls of playdough. Smash 5 and determine how many balls remain. Write it out: 9 – 5 = 4. 

3. Drive and Subtract 

Round up your toy cars and label each with a number. Lay out a blank subtraction equation with a minus sign and equals sign. Then, have fun driving two cars into place, and zooming the answer in last. 

Example: Drive a car labeled 12 and one labeled 4 into the first two spaces. Complete the problem and drive the answer (8) into place. Vroom!

4. Flashcard Toss 

Set out bowls or bins labeled with the answers to your flashcards. Pull a flashcard, determine the answer, then try to toss it into the correct bin. If you miss, go grab it and drop it in; your turn is over. If you land it, you get to go again. 

Example: Player one pulls a flashcard reading 12 – 5. They determine the answer is 7 and try to toss it into the bin labeled 7. It misses, so they get the card and drop it straight in. Now, the next player takes a turn.

5. Subtraction Bowling  

Pick up an inexpensive bowling set at the dollar store or make your own from empty plastic bottles. Set up the pins, then take turns bowling and knocking them down, keeping track by writing out the equations each time. 

Example: The player bowls the ball and knocks down 3 pins. They write out 10 – 3 = 7. Then, they take their second turn and knock down 4 pins. They write out 7 – 4 = 3. 

6. Hide and Subtract 

Lay out a few small toys or counters on the table and ask your child to count them up. Then, they cover their eyes and you take away a number of them. Then count up what’s left and determine how many you took away. 

Example: There are 23 building bricks on the table. Your child closes their eyes, and you remove 15 of them. They open their eyes and count the remaining bricks (8), then write the equation to figure out how many you removed: 23 – 8 = 15. 

7. Domino War 

Each player starts with a pile of dominos, face-down. At the same time, all players flip a domino face up and subtract the smaller side from the larger side. The player with the lowest remaining number of dots wins all the dominos. If there’s a tie, players flip a second domino. The game ends when one player has rounded up all the dominos! 

Example: Player one flips a domino with one side showing 3 dots and the other showing 8. They create the expression 8 – 3 for a difference of 5 (or the equation 8-3=5). Player two’s domino has 6 dots on one side and 5 on the other. Their expression is 6 – 5 for a difference of 1 (or the equation 6-5=1). Player two wins the round.

8. Roll to Zero  

Each player needs two dice, a pencil, and a long piece of scratch paper with the number 100 written at the top. At the word “Go!” all players begin rolling their dice at the same time and subtracting from the running total, trying to be the first to reach zero. The trick? You must reach zero exactly, so if your running total is down to 3, you must roll exactly a 3 to win. 

Example: Player one rolls the dice and gets a 2 and a 3, totaling 5. They write 100 – 5 = 95. Then they roll again, getting a total of 12. They write 95 – 12, for a new total of 83, and so on. All the other players are doing the same at the same time, racing to get to zero first.

Real World Subtraction Activities

When you work subtraction practice into your daily activities, kids see that math really is a useful skill, now and in the future! 

9. Snack Subtraction  

Snack mixes are perfect for this subtraction activity, but you can do it with any snack that comes in small pieces. Start by sorting and counting your snacks. Then, eat a few, counting as you go. Determine how many should be left, then count to see if you’re right. 

Example: Start with a plate that has 15 mini pretzels and 11 grapes. Eat 3 pretzels and 4 grapes, then determine the remaining totals: 15 – 3 = 12 pretzels and 11 – 4 = 7 grapes remaining. Yummy and educational!

10. Cooking Math

There are lots of opportunities to practice subtraction while you’re cooking or baking. Get your child involved in the process, asking them applicable subtraction problems as you go. 

Example: It’s breakfast time! Pull out the carton of eggs and have your child ask how many are in it (8, in this example). Tell them you need to cook 5 eggs and ask how many will be left when you’re done.

11. Calendar Countdown  

Mark off days on a calendar leading up to the weekend or a special occasion. Keep a running total of the daily countdown on a board or sticky note nearby. 

Example: Your child’s birthday is March 27, and today is March 3. Count the remaining days and write the total on the board (23, if you don’t count today). Cross off the day on the calendar, subtract one, and write the new total on the board (22). Repeat each day.

12. Budget Shopping 

Example: Your child chooses a box of cereal that costs $4.79. They subtract that from $10.00, leaving $5.21. Then they buy yogurt for $1.29, and have $3.92, etc. For younger children, round the cost of items up or down for simpler math, such as rounding $4.79 up to $5.00.

13. Are We There Yet? 

Taking a road trip? Count down the miles remaining in response to those endless cries of, “Are we there yet?” Use road signs or GPS information to see how far you’ve come, and how far you still have to go. 

Example: “We have to travel 327 miles to get to the beach house. We’ve gone 63 miles so far. How many miles do we have left?”

14. Temperature Tracking  

Buy an outdoor thermometer or weather station and track the temperature, figuring out the differences at various times of day. You can also compare temperatures from one day, week, season, or year to the next. 

Example: “It was 88 degrees before the thunderstorm started. Now it’s 73 degrees. How many degrees did the temperature drop?”

15. Step Counting  

Working on getting in your daily steps? Have your child help do the math to figure out how far you still have to go. 

Example: “I want to get 5,000 steps today before dinner time. I’ve already done 3,212. How many more steps do I need to meet my goal?” If these large numbers are outside the scope of your child’s math skills, work on counting steps to the mailbox or the number of steps from the kitchen to the bathroom. 

ABCmouse Subtraction Activities

Our games, videos, worksheets, and learning programs are designed by experts to develop and reinforce early math skills. Use activities like these for practice and enrichment. 

16. Subtraction Videos and Songs  

The ABCmouse YouTube channel is full of videos and songs that can help children learn math skills like subtraction in fun and engaging ways. Sing along with your child to join in the learning! 

Try It: Ten in the Bed Counting and Subtraction Song

17. Online Subtraction Games  

Learning games provide real benefits for kids , and make good use of screen time. The learning games in our library are free to try for 30 days and include plenty of options for subtraction skills for beginners and more advanced learners. The voiced instructions mean even pre-readers can play on their own. 

Try it : Bubble Subtraction  

Note : This game requires an ABCmouse subscription to play.

18. Kindergarten Math Worksheets  

Worksheet practice doesn’t have to be boring! Our free printable collection includes a general math review, including shapes, time telling, numbers, addition, and subtraction.

Try it: Kindergarten Math Worksheets  

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Subtraction - Interactive Games, Drills, Simulations, and Printables

This section contains hundreds of activities and resources related to subtraction. To sort these activities by grade level, activity type, or format, please use the resources to the left.

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Subtraction Worksheets Hub Page

Welcome our Subtraction Worksheets hub page.

Here you will find a wide range of free printable subtraction sheets, games and other activities which will help your child improve their subtracting skills.

We also have a range of subtraction word problem sheets, subtraction puzzles and games to play!

For full functionality of this site it is necessary to enable JavaScript.

Here are the instructions how to enable JavaScript in your web browser .

• This page contains links to other Math webpages where you will find a range of activities and resources.
• If you can't find what you are looking for, try searching the site using the Google search box at the top of each page.

Subtraction Learning

Subtraction is a process which most children learn quite naturally as soon as they learn to start counting. During kindergarten and first grade, it is really important for kids to have the chance to work practically with their math.

An example might be that a child has 10 sweets. They give 3 to their teddy. How many do they have left? What if they gave another to their teddy? What if their teddy had 8 sweets, how many would be left for them?

Later on, when children are confident Subtracting practically, they can progress on to number lines or counting back in their heads. When children have understood this, they can begin to learn their Subtraction facts and progress on to column Subtraction. At 4th and 5th grade level, they start Subtracting decimals.

Knowing your Subtraction facts is still a key skill that children need to be able to use in real life math - you may not always have a pencil and paper to hand to do your column Subtraction, but you will always have your Subtraction facts!

Subtraction Worksheets

On this page you will find link to our range of subtraction math worksheets.

Quicklinks to subtraction sheets ...

Subtraction Worksheets by Grade

Subtraction facts worksheets.

• Column Subtraction Sheets
• Subtracting Positive & Negative Numbers

Subtraction Word Problems

• Subtraction Games

Supporting Subtraction Resources

Kindergarten subtraction worksheets.

• Kindergarten Subtraction Worksheets (easier)
• Subtraction to 10 Worksheets (harder)

Top of Page

First Grade Subtraction Worksheets

• Subtracting on a Number Line Worksheets
• Number Line Addition and Subtraction
• Subtraction Facts to 12
• Add and Subtract 10 Worksheets
• Subtracting tens
• Two Digit Subtraction Worksheets Without Regrouping
• 2 Digit Subtraction Worksheets With Regrouping
• 2 Digit Addition & Subtraction Worksheets
• 1st Grade Subtraction Word Problems

Second Grade Subtraction Worksheets

• Subtraction Facts to 20 Worksheets

This link will open our 2nd-grade-math-salamanders site in a new window.

• Subtract 1, 10 or 100 Worksheets
• Add and Subtract Within 20 Worksheets
• 3 Digit Subtraction Worksheets
• 3 Digit Addition and Subtraction Worksheets
• Subtraction Word Problems 2nd grade

3rd Grade Subtraction Worksheets

• Third Grade Subtraction Worksheets to 100
• 4 Digit Subtraction Worksheets
• 4 Digit Addition and Subtraction

These sheets involve solving 3-digit and 4-digit subtraction problems.

• Subtraction Word Problems 3rd Grade

4th Grade Subtraction Worksheets

• 5 Digit Subtraction Worksheets
• Money Subtraction Worksheets ($)

5th Grade Subtraction Worksheets

• Subtracting Decimals Worksheets (mental)
• 5th Grade Subtraction Worksheets up to Billions
• Decimal Subtraction Worksheets (columns)

Here you will find a selection of Mental Subtraction sheets designed to help your child improve their recall of Subtraction Facts.

The math sheets start off with learning Subtracting facts to 10, progress on to Subtracting to 20 then up to 100 at third grade level.

When children reach 4th grade, they start learning to subtract decimals and money amounts using column Subtraction.

The printable sheets below will support your child with their Subtraction learning.

Subtraction Fact Worksheet Generator

Here is our free generator for subtraction sheets.

This easy-to-use generator will create randomly generated subtraction sheets for you to use.

Each sheet comes complete with answers if required.

The areas the generator covers includes:

• subtraction with numbers up to 10, 15, 20, 50, 100 and 1000;
• subtraction by 10s from 2 digit numbers;
• subtraction by 100s from 3 digit numbers;
• subtraction with numbers to 10 with one decimal place;
• subtraction with numbers to 1 with 2 decimal places;
• subtraction involving negative numbers.

These generated sheets can be used in a number of ways to help your child with their subtraction fact learning.

• Free Subtraction Worksheets (randomly generated)
• Addition Subtraction Worksheets (randomly generated)

Subtracting to 10 Sheets (Kindergarten & 1st Grade)

Here you will find a selection of Subtraction sheets designed to help your child learn their Subtraction facts up to 10.

The sheets are graded so that kids are supported for the first few sheets with objects to count, then a number line and finally the support is withdrawn in the final sheets.

Using these sheets will help your child learn to:

• subtract numbers up to a total of 10.

Subtraction Facts to 12 (1st Grade)

Here you will find a range of Free Printable First Grade Subtraction sheets designed to help you child to learn their Subtraction facts to 12.

• learn their Subtraction facts up to 12;
• First Grade Addition and Subtraction to 12

Subtracting tens (1st Grade)

The following sheets will help your child learn and practice subtracting multiples of 10 up to 100.

The sheets are carefully graded and supported.

Subtraction Facts to 20 (2nd Grade)

Here you will find a range of Free Printable 2nd Grade Subtraction Sheets designed to help you child to learn their Subtraction facts to 20.

Using these sheets will help your child to:

• learn their Subtraction facts up to 20;
• Free Subtraction Facts to 20

Subtraction Facts to 100 (3rd Grade)

Here you will find a range of 3rd Grade free printable Subtraction sheets.

The following sheets develop children's knowledge of their Subtraction facts up to 100.

• learn to subtract 1s, 10s, 100s and 1000s to different numbers
• learn their Subtraction facts to 100
• Third Grade Subtraction Worksheets 1s 10s 100s

Decimal Subtraction Facts (5th Grade)

Here you will find a range of 5th Grade free printable Decimal Subtraction sheets.

The following sheets develop children's understanding of place value and decimals as well as applying their Subtraction fact knowledge to work out their decimal Subtraction facts.

• subtract numbers mentally involving tenths and hundredths.

Column Subtraction Worksheets

Column Subtraction starts properly once children reach 1st grade, and after they have a good understanding of counting and place value. At first grade, children learn to subtract with numbers up to 100.

Once they have mastered this, they can progress on to Subtracting a range of 3 digit, then 4 and 5 digit numbers together in columns.

Once they reach 4th and 5th grade, they learn to subtract together columns of numbers which include decimals up to 2 decimal places.

• Subtraction With Regrouping Worksheet Generator

Take a look at our Subtraction Worksheet Generators.

You can create your own subtraction worksheets with your own range of numbers.

You can use numbers up to 7 digits, and also include decimals and money.

This generator will create money subtraction worksheets set out in columns.

• Subtracting Money Worksheets (random)

Column Subtraction to 100 (1st & 2nd Grade)

Here you will find a range of 1st Grade Column Subtraction sheets which are designed to help your child master their column Subtraction.

The following sheets will help your child to:

• subtract with numbers up to 100 in columns;
• understand how to do column Subtraction.

3 Digit Column Subtraction (2nd Grade)

Here you will find a range of 2nd Grade Column Subtraction sheets which are designed to help your child master their column Subtraction.

• subtract with numbers up to 1000 in columns.

Column Subtraction 4 Digits (3rd Grade)

Here you will find a range of 3rd Grade Column Subtraction sheets which are designed to help your child master their column Subtraction.

• subtract with numbers up to 10,000 in columns.

Column Subtraction with Larger Numbers (4th & 5th Grade)

Here you will find a range of 4th Grade Column Subtraction sheets which are designed to help your child master their column Subtraction.

• subtract with numbers up to 100,000 in columns.

Decimal Column Subtraction (4th & 5th Grade)

Here you will find a range of 4th Grade Column Subtraction sheets which are designed to help your child master their column Subtraction with money using decimals.

• subtract money in columns involving decimals.

Subtracting Positive & Negative Numbers (6th Grade)

We also have a generator for creating your own subtraction worksheets involving signed integers.

You can choose the values you want and tailor the worksheets to your needs.

• Subtracting Positive and Negative Numbers (randomly generated)

Here are some of our subtraction word problem worksheets.

The worksheets have been sorted by grade.

• 2nd Grade Addition and Subtraction Word Problems
• 3rd Grade Addition and Subtraction Word Problems (3- and 4-digits)

Here you will find a range of Free Printable Subtraction Games to help kids learn their subtraction facts.

Using these games will help your child to learn their subtraction facts, and also to develop their memory and strategic thinking skills.

Here you will find our selection of free resources such as flashcards and 100 squares to help your child to count on and back, and learn their subtraction facts.

Printable Subtraction Flashcards

Here you will find a selection of printable Subtraction Flashcards designed to help your child learn their subtraction facts.

Using flashcards is a great way to learn your math facts. They can be taken on a journey, played with in a game, or used in a spare five minutes daily until your child knows their facts off by heart.

• learn their subtraction facts.
• Free Math Flashcards Subtraction

Basic Math Facts 0-99 (and 1-100) Charts

On this webpage you will find our range of basic math fact charts.

There is a wide range of printable charts, including larger charts and mini charts, blank charts and partially filled charts.

Using these charts will help your child to:

• learn their numbers up to 100;
• understand how to count on and back in ones and tens.
• Printable Number Charts 0-99
• Hundred Number Charts (100 Squares)

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8 Best Subtraction Games To Help Students Sharpen Their Math Skills

Written by Victoria Hegwood

• Teacher Activities

• 1. Prodigy Math
• 2. Bowl & Subtract
• 3. Smash Playdough
• 4. Cat Rescue
• 5. Jam Journey
• 6. LEGO Subtraction Race
• 7. Zipper bag number line
• 8. Penalty Kick Subtraction

Math skills all build on one another. Having a solid foundation is absolutely critical for success. 

Addition and subtraction are the beginning of that foundation. Lessons on subtraction begin in kindergarten, 1st grade or 2nd grade, depending on the curriculum that is being used in the classroom.

And there’s not just one way to teach subtraction. There are a variety of subtraction activities available that can help students understand the fundamentals of subtraction problems. Teachers may choose to use educational games, printable worksheets, or other activities in the classroom.

If you’re looking for some great recommendations for subtraction games, you’re in the right place! This article will discuss some of the top subtraction games teachers and parents can use in and outside the classroom for math practice.

Top 8 subtraction games to use in and out of the classroom

Prodigy Math is a great way for students to learn subtraction skills in an interactive format. This game primarily focuses on subtraction skills in the first grade and second grade levels. And then teaches more advanced math skills at higher levels. 

This fun game will allow students to engage with subtraction problems on-par with their grade level and current skills. 

As the game progresses and the student answers the problems correctly, the challenges may get harder. The game is always supporting the learner to further their knowledge. 

Teachers can easily set engaging subtraction assignments that require no grading and instantly get reports on each student’s progress. No extra work required!

Prodigy Math is also easy to translate into at home learning. It’s simple for students to log into their account at home and pick up right where they left off. 

Parents can join in on the learning process by tracking their child’s progress, giving them in-game rewards and getting access to extra learning materials like math videos.

Bowl & Subtract is a simple activity you can use in your classroom with just a math worksheet and a set of toy bowling pins.

On the math worksheet there should be simple single-digit subtraction problems. 

Using a set of 10 pins, students should set up the same number of pins as the first part of the problem. Then, they can bowl and knock down the number of pins in the second part of the problem. Finally, they will count how many pins are left up to get the answer. 

This is a great game to use for younger learners who are just getting started with subtracting. It helps the problems become easier to visualize. 

Bowl & Subtract is also an easy option for homeschool kids since it’s inexpensive and easy to recreate with other objects if you don’t own bowling pins.

3. Smash playdough to learn subtraction equations

It’s no secret that kids love playing with playdough at any age. It’s easy to use playdough as an interactive way to teach the fundamentals of subtraction and help students visualize subtraction problems.

Start by giving each student enough playdough to make multiple small balls. Then, students will have a subtraction equation in front of them and can smash the correct number of balls to get the correct answer.

This activity can be done by each student individually as they work through math problems. Or it can be played as a game with the whole class. Students can race to make the balls and smash the right number the fastest.

4. Cat Rescue Subtraction Game

Cat Rescue is an online game themed after cute cats, robots and crazy aliens. In the game, students protect cats throughout the city of Purrington while practicing their subtraction skills and battling alien spaceships.

Students will absolutely love this free subtraction game and be building their subtraction skills without even realizing it!

Jam Journey is another online subtraction game which allows students to practice subtraction facts in a fun way.

The main character in the game, Hamish, needs jam for his gift. And he’s enlisted the player’s help to collect a variety of fruit to make this jam. Players need to use their subtraction skills in order to gather these fruits. 

This game is a great tool to use both in and out of the classroom to allow students to engage with learning material in a fun way.

LEGO Subtraction Race is an easy way to engage learners in the classroom. All you will need to complete this activity is some Lego bricks and a set of six-sided dice.

You can start by instructing students to stack a specific number of Lego bricks together. Each student will then take turns rolling the die and subtracting that number of lego bricks from their tower.

Teachers can set up this interactive activity as a race between students or there can be one really tall tower that the whole class works on taking down. 

Or yet another option is having teams of students race against each other to take down their towers. This option has the fun of a competition while still working on teamwork between students. 

A zipper bag number line is an excellent subtraction activity that teachers can use over and over again. It is also fairly inexpensive and can be used for teaching addition and subtraction as well as multiplication and division.

Using a plastic zipper bag and an erasable expo marker, create a number line on the top of the bag. Then, slide in subtraction flash cards with different equations in the bag.

Students can use the number line to help them solve the equations and move on to a brand new equation by changing out the card once they get the correct answer.

The compact nature of this activity can make it an easy option for centers or independent learning time. 

Hint: if there’s a logo on your bags getting in the way, try using hand sanitizer to remove it.

Penalty kick subtraction is a free online game that is always a hit when teaching subtraction skills. 

Players aim a soccer ball at the goal to try and score points. The goalkeeper will attempt to block the shots. After each shot, the student has to answer a subtraction equation correctly in order to score points.

This game is entirely free and easily accessible online.

Tips for teaching subtraction to your students

Subtraction is one of the fundamental building blocks in math, so it's important for students to grasp the concept early in their education. 

The best tip for teaching subtraction is to start with the basics and build on students’ skills only when they’ve mastered the previous concept.

It's important for students to first grasp the most basic understanding of subtraction – this includes learning what the minuend , subtrahend , and difference are in a subtraction equation. Now they may not remember those vocabulary words, but they need to know how the various parts of an equation function. 

When first introducing subtraction concepts, you should start with single digit addition and subtraction fact families . These quick and easy problems not only get students started with the basics but also help students feel empowered as they learn this difficult skill. 

Then, you can move onto larger place values and add in things like fractions or decimals when developmentally appropriate. It’s important not to introduce these challenges too early so that learners don’t get overwhelmed or discouraged. 

Once you move onto two-digit subtraction, you can introduce skills like regrouping and solving word problems .

Following this path, your learner will know how to handle any subtraction problem before you know it! 

Engage your learners in subtraction and more with Prodigy Math

Like any new concept that is introduced, subtraction can be quite challenging for young students. However, there are a variety of learning games that can make subtraction more fun and interactive for young learners. 

No matter what resources you have available to you or what your learners need, there is a high-quality subtraction game out there that you can use. 

If you're looking to level up math practice for your student or child, try Prodigy!

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Subtraction by ‘Take from 10’ Strategy - Part 2

In this interactive math lesson, students will explore the 'Take from 10' strategy for subtraction. Through engaging tasks and visual aids, they will learn how to subtract a single-digit number from a two-digit number within 20. The lesson includes warm-up exercises, guided practice, independent practice, and problem-solving activities.

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FREE Number Talks

First grade teachers, access 20 FREE Number Talk Prompts to enhance your place value unit and get your students engaged in conversation.

7 Favorite Subtraction with Regrouping Games and Activities

Teaching subtraction with regrouping is a marathon, not a sprint. And one that requires four things:

• The concept to be broken down into bitesize lessons
• A range of strategies to support foundational subtraction understanding
• Activities that help students visualize the process of “regrouping”
• Repeated, incrementally challenging practice

Today, I’ll share how I approach teaching 2-digit subtraction with regrouping. Then, I’ll walk you through my criteria for effective subtraction with regrouping activities . And in the process, I’ll share my favorites.

Breaking Down 2-Digit Subtraction with Regrouping

Over the years, I’ve learned that it is vital to break down subtraction with regrouping, and scaffold activities one step at a time. That way, students can build conceptual knowledge slowly and deeply . They can then apply the same pattern to more “complex” numbers.

I break down subtraction with regrouping into four progressive categories:

• Teen by 1-Digit Subtraction with Regrouping (15-7)
• Multiple of Ten by 1-Digit Subtraction with Regrouping (30-6)
• 2-Digit by 1-Digit Subtraction with Regrouping (43-5)
• 2-Digit by 2-Digit Subtraction with Regrouping (45-27)

First: Teen by 1-Digit Subtraction with Regrouping

We start here because students have previously worked hard to build fluency through twenty. We have already formed strategies with building bridges to ten (or make a ten to add ). Students are familiar with crossing the first decade, so it’s a great place to build from.

When we start subtraction with regrouping from a teen number, I shift from working with ten frames to working with Unifix cubes. I want students to start creating visuals of place value, as this is going to create our entire foundation. My favorite way is to use a simple place value mat. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Even just a piece of paper with a line down the middle to separate tens and ones.

When working with Unifix cubes, students should create sticks of ten, place them on the left side of their paper, and then notice what they have left over. This is going to provide a visual that tells students immediately if they have enough ones, or if we are going to need to look to our tens and regroup.

For example, if we are looking at 15 – 8, I want my students to build fifteen by creating a stick of ten Unifix cubes, and then five more stacked to the right. This way, students will see that we don’t have enough ones to subtract eight, so we have to take from our tens.

In this process, we are paying close attention to place value. Probing questions I might ask include:

• How many tens did we start with?
• How many tens did we end up with?
• What happened to the ten? I only subtracted eight?

I want students to really examine what took place and begin processing the idea of regrouping as it relates to place value. I ensure students have a solid understanding of this concept before moving on to step two.

2-Digit Addition & Subtraction with Regrouping Games

Second: multiple of ten by 1-digit subtraction with regrouping.

It’s time to kick things up a notch. Again, we’re going to focus on a familiar concept with students so that we can continue building a solid foundation of subtraction with regrouping.

In early grades, students often spend a lot of time exploring combinations of ten and subtracting one-digit numbers from ten.  For example, 10 – 6 = 4. 

This pattern is often familiar. Therefore, the concept of subtracting a one-digit number from a tens number is already formed.

Students can see how the pattern remains the same as they use larger multiples of ten.  Similar to 10 – 6 = 4, 20 – 6 = 14.

I take time to explore this pattern with students with visual supports (again using Unifix cubes). When we try 10 – 6 with unifix cubes they can see that there aren’t any ones, only a ten. We break apart the ten into ones (moving it over to the right side of the page) and then subtract.

Then we try it with different multiples of ten, while still using the Unifix cubes as visuals. 20 – 6, 40 – 6, 70 – 6. When I notice that my students are developing a deep understanding for the pattern, I switch to another familiar combination of ten. Perhaps 10-7 or 10-3, and we repeat this step in subtraction with regrouping.

Third: 2-Digit by 1-Digit Subtraction with Regrouping

Again, manipulatives in math — especially with subtraction with regrouping– are crucial for building these concepts and support students as they practice holding onto multiple or larger numbers.

We’re going to continue with our manipulatives as we move into 2-digit by 1-Digit Subtraction with Regrouping. This time we’re really going to focus on the preservation of tens. This means that we are going to spend time noticing how many tens we started with, and how many we end up with after we regroup.

We are also going to begin digging into looking at a range of 2-digit by 1-digit subtraction problems and see if we can determine which problems will require regrouping before we even start! Here it’s important that we let students explore the problems and see if they can discover clues independently instead of having them directed to a strategy. This will almost always help the idea stick better!

Fourth: Two-Digit Minus Two-Digit Subtraction with Regrouping

Finally! You’ve built your students up to full-on double-digit subtraction with regrouping. By now, your students have experienced subtraction within higher decades. Additionally, they have had some experience with building their working memory to hold onto multiple groups of tens and ones.

They are READY!

Advice : Just because your students are ready for double-digit subtraction doesn’t mean you should stop doing all prerequisites. It is constructive to mix things up (interleaving). It will jog their memory and help them build a lasting understanding of subtraction patterns.

Favorite Activities for Subtraction with Regrouping

I love thinking about the nitty gritty of math and how to make it accessible to all students. But, choosing activities to support the fine-tuned process of breaking down complex, abstract concepts can be difficult. Why? Not all activities are equal. 

Students need structured support to learn and practice subtraction with regrouping while doing an independent activity. Yes, I begin by demonstrating and teaching subtraction with regrouping strategies in whole and small groups. However, in centers, I use small groups and need activities that students can do independently.

That’s why I make sure my subtraction with regrouping activities: 

• Include Visuals
• Include Step-by-Step Modeling
• Can be easily Differentiated
• Can be Self-Supported as an independent activity

There are multiple ways to visualize a math problem. But did you know that some visualizations can actually help students see the underlying mathematical patterns? On the flip side, other visualizations merely show the steps.

I try to find and create visuals that show the patterns. And, ideally (because every brain is different), in more than one way.

2-Digit Subtraction Jigsaw Puzzles

My 2-Digit Subtraction Jigsaw Puzzles are a favorite for visuals. Each puzzle contains four representations of the same math problem:

• On a hundred-chart/99-chart
• A visual of base ten blocks
• Breaking down numbers into place values
• On a number line

Here’s how to play:

• Cut each puzzle into four pieces by cutting along the black edge.
• Present each student with multiple puzzles, mixed up and ready for them to solve.
• Each puzzle (connecting all representations) makes a square.
• Students find all the puzzle pieces that represent the same subtraction problem.
• They arrange the puzzle pieces back into a square.

Flexibility/Modifications:

2-Digit Subtraction Jigsaw Puzzles are a great way to get kids to use their gross motor muscles and math-solving and reasoning skills.  In partnerships or independently, students can spread out the puzzles on the floor, take up space, and try to solve them all.

Activities That Model the Steps

If I could work one-on-one with every child simultaneously, I would. However, we all know that’s just not possible! Students need to go to independent practice before they are fully independent. That’s why I try to find activities that guide and model the steps of subtraction with regrouping.

Deconstruction Zone

Deconstruction Zone is one of my absolute favorites. First, this is an excellent activity to slowly build up to double-digit subtraction with regrouping (yay, differentiation). There are three versions!

Students need four materials:

• A building board
• A set of construction zone cards (these differentiate)
• A set of base ten blocks
• A recording sheet

• Set up one building board with a matching set of cards (Pick a set from any of the four stages of teaching from above). All cards should be face-down in a pile.
• Flip over one card to receive a subtraction problem.
• Build the first number (the minuend) with base ten blocks. Place the tens on the left side and those on the right inside the tens frame.
• Next, remove the subtrahend (the number being subtracted) from your base ten blocks.
• If you don’t have enough ones, “break” or decompose a ten rod into ten ones and place those in the ten-frame on the right.
• After, count the total base-ten blocks you have (by tens and ones). That’s your difference!
• Record your final answer!

As you may have noticed, Deconstruction Zone playfully walks students through the PHYSICAL process of decomposition. That translated into the act of “regrouping” in the abstract.

Can I Flip It? Yes, You Can!

Can I Flip It? (Yes, You Can! ) is a fantastic way to get kids to think critically about subtraction problems by modeling them on a number line. Students will walk away with a better understanding of the relationship between addition and subtraction and can do so with independence through the visual aid.

Sometimes, students forget that strategies, such as using a number line, can be used for problems no matter the number of digits. Even if it is a subtraction problem that involves regrouping, foundational patterns and strategies still apply!

Students will receive the following:

• A deck of cards
• A laminated board
• Students pick a playing card with a subtraction number sentence and write it on their board.
• Next, before finding the difference, they flip it into an addition problem where one of the addends is unknown, turning the minuend (the greater number) into the sum and the subtrahend into an addend.
• Then, they use the number line to “jump” from the known addend to the sum.
• Finally, they write the value of jumps in the original subtraction and addition sentences and record them on the recording sheet.

Grab a Ten and Try Again

This is another great activity that supports the final stage of subtraction with regrouping skill-building. Grab a Ten and Try Again explicitly guides students through 2-digit subtraction with regrouping. In fact, the beauty of this activity is that it is the teacher.

Bonus: Grab a Ten is simple, with almost zero prep.

So, what is it? It is a graphic organizer that walks students through the process of breaking down 2-digit numbers by place value. This is crucial for students who are ready to move to the next stage, but they still need foundational support around place value and support to see the WHY behind the regrouping strategy.

Students need:

• A sheet protector
• A dry-erase marker
• A recording page

Students spin the spinner to find their minuend and subtrahend (their first and second numbers). Then, they follow the graphic organizer to break down the numbers into tens and ones.

Easy to Differentiate Activities

As the kid who regularly got the “easy” activities, I know firsthand the embarrassment it can cause. Now, as a teacher, I know that students learn at different paces. That’s why I always include easy-to-differentiate activities in my centers. It is more valuable to simplify or complexify the same activity than give students different activities. Likewise, it is less work for you . Win-win.

Low frustration tolerance or still working through the subtraction with regrouping progression are the two most common reasons I differentiate. For students with low frustration tolerance that can tackle more complex problems, I usually look for activities that include a mix of regrouping and non-regrouping problems. That way, before a challenging problem, they get the “reward” feeling of figuring out a few others.

How Will You Jump?

Grab your pogo stick because How Will You Jump? hits all four of the main things I look for in activities. 

• It includes visuals.
• It models a process for subtraction (subtraction on a number line).
• It can be differentiated.
• It can be played independently (and in small groups).

Here’s how you play:

• You begin with a board, playing cards, and a pencil (or dry-erase marker if your board is laminated)
• Pick a card with a subtraction expression
• Decide: will you start with the minuend and jump backward or the subtrahend and jump forward?
• If you start with your minuend, you’ll jump backward the amount of your subtrahend. You choose the number of jumps that feels best (jumps of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, etc.). Eventually, you’ll land on the total (the difference).
• Then, you’ll write your completed number sentence on the recording page.

Self-Supporting Tasks

It might go without saying, but I’ll say it anyway: I’m always looking for self-supporting tasks or tasks that a partner can check. After all, I can’t be everywhere at once. And ultimately, I want students to do all their work independently. The goal is to give them independence in my classroom and beyond.

But here’s the catch: I don’t just want students to work silently and get work done independently. I want them to be able to check their own answers or a peer’s answers without my support. Ideally, this happens through the process of the activity. Not just as a checkpoint at the end.

Gumball Unscramble

One of my favorite self-supporting tasks is Gumball Unscramble . It can be completed independently and incorporates a natural self-checking process. 

• Start with gumball puzzle cards (ideally laminated), a recording page, and a pencil (or dry-erase marker)
• Examine the four digits in the gumball container.
• Use the four digits to create a TRUE number sentence that equals the corresponding difference at the bottom.
• Record the numbers in the circles above the difference

Teacher Tip : It is helpful to laminate the puzzle cards. Then, students can use dry-erase markers to solve the problems. After, they can transfer their answers onto a recording sheet.

Don’t Steal My Treasure!

Partner stations are also a great way to build up independence with subtraction with regrouping. Often, students are still learning how to check their work. It requires a lot of awareness and mastery of subtraction with regrouping skills.

While many activities work well in partners, I regularly return to Don’t Steal My Treasure!

Don’t Steal My Treasure is best played in small group lessons or partner stations.

Players start with the following:

• A deck of Don’t Steal My Treasure cards
• A pen or pencil
• Players deal out the cards and place them face down on their board.
• Simultaneously, each player flips over the top card on the pile.
• Each player must determine whether their problem needs to use regrouping
• If one player has a subtraction with regrouping problem, and the other does not, they can STEAL their opponent’s card. But, to do so, they must accurately solve their subtraction with regrouping problem.
• Peer Checking Alert: To officially steal their opponent’s card, they must solve the problem correctly. That means their partner needs to check the answer.
• They continue to take turns collecting (and stealing) each other’s problems, placing them in their treasure chests.
• The game finishes when one player runs out of cards, and the player with all the cards in their treasure chest wins!

Note : This is a fantastic opportunity for students to check each other’s work. And trust me, they will be motivated to do so by the idea of winning. However, students need to learn and practice how to check a partner’s work appropriately and win gracefully (SEL meets math!).

I hope this post helps as you approach this big step in your young mathematicians’ journeys. Breaking down complex concepts can feel tedious at times. However, if you go slow now, you’ll go much further later. There will be fewer roadblocks later in the year. Swear by another subtraction with regroup activity? Please let me know! I love hearing your ideas.

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Subtraction is a foundational math skill that students need to become comfortable with performing. Math Games enables children from pre-K through 7th grade to have loads of fun as they practice this skill in accessible, adventure-filled games!

With our site’s free, curriculum-based games, apps, digital textbook, and downloadable worksheets, pupils are able to easily review tasks such as:

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What’s more, Math Games lets kids enjoy themselves as they learn! Our popular resources are available to use in the classroom or at home, and can be easily tailored to suit different grade levels and abilities. Click on a skill above to start using our tools!

Subtraction Worksheets

Welcome to the Subtraction Worksheets page at Math-Drills.com where you will get less of an experience than our other pages! This page includes Subtraction worksheets on topics such as five minute frenzies, one-, two-, three- and multi-digit subtraction and subtracting across zeros.

Subtraction has been around for several years now... well maybe more than a few, so it's probably a good thing for students to learn. People experience subtraction every minute of their lives from banks and the government taking away your money to the cookies in the jar mysteriously disappearing. With a good knowledge of subtraction, you can understand why your bank account reaches zero and do something to prevent it from happening.

Some students do have difficulty with subtraction, so take it easy on them. Help them to learn their addition facts first. Once they know those, they will need a few more strategies to successfully subtract. Teaching with manipulatives like base ten blocks or cereal or insects in the park can help students gain a deeper understanding of subtraction. The subtracting worksheets on this page are meant to support good teaching practices, so only use them for independent learning if students are practising skills they already know.

We use the words, minuend, subtrahend and difference on this page. Please refer to the following, so you know which word means which part of a subtraction question.

Minuend - Subtrahend = Difference

Most Popular Subtraction Worksheets this Week

Subtraction Facts Tables

Five minute subtraction frenzies are timed practice charts that help students develop subtraction fact recall speed. These charts are similar to the addition and multiplication frenzy charts, but due to the nature of how subtraction works, we could not focus solely on the single digit fact families. For example, you might get questions like 18 - 4 = 14. You also have to be aware that you must subtract the row number from the column number to get a positive number (or zero). Other than that, they should be a nice way to practice some mental subtraction. As with most of these pages, please only use them as a timed activity with students who will experience success. If a student does not have the necessary skills to complete a frenzy in under five minutes, you may need to take a different approach to how you deliver this page. For all others, students should be able to complete this page in under five minutes with a 98% or greater accuracy and improve their time as they get more practice.

• Five Minute Subtraction Frenzies Five Minute Subtraction Frenzy (Minuends 9 to 18; Subtrahends 0 to 9) Five Minute Subtraction Frenzy (Minuends 29 to 38; Subtrahends 10 to 19) Five Minute Subtraction Frenzy (Minuends 41 to 50; Subtrahends 16 to 25)

Most of the subtraction tables in this section are meant to be used as a reference for students learning their subtraction facts. After a while, most students will remember the facts and recall them easily when completing math problems.

• Subtraction Facts Tables 0 to 11 Subtraction Facts 0 to 11 in Grey Subtraction Facts 0 to 11 in Color Subtraction Facts 0 to 11 with Facts Highlighted Subtraction Facts 0 to 11 in Montessori Colors Subtraction Facts 0 to 11 in Montessori Colors with Facts Highlighted
• Subtraction Facts Tables 1 to 12 Subtraction Facts Tables in Gray 1 to 12 Subtraction Facts Tables in Color 1 to 12 Subtraction Facts Tables in Montessori Colors 1 to 12 Subtraction Facts 1 to 12 with Facts Highlighted Subtraction Facts 1 to 12 in Montessori Colors with Facts Highlighted
• Compact Subtraction Facts Tables Compact Subtraction Table (Filled) Compact Subtraction Table (Blank)

Single-Digit Subtraction Facts

Subtracting single-digit facts is a skill that students generally learn after or while they are learning single-digit addition facts. The subtraction worksheets in this section are meant to be used for practice, testing or with teacher guidance. They will not teach students how to subtract or what the connection is between addition and subtraction; for that, students require a teacher or parent.

Some students might find it easier to start with subtraction facts with minuends (the first number) limited to 9 or lower. This way, they don't need to count across 10 eliminating that extra pesky digit... for now.

• Subtracting Single-Digit from Single-Digit Numbers 100 Subtraction Questions with Minuends up to 9 64 Subtraction Questions with Minuends up to 9 25 Subtraction Questions with Minuends up to 9

In relation to addition facts, the following worksheets cover the facts from 0 to 9, and the worksheets after that cover the addition facts from 1 to 9. The minuends are the amounts to be subtracted from, so a minuend of 18 means that both the subtrahend (the amount being subtracted) and the difference will be 9. The worksheets marked with an asterisk (*) include all possible questions in a random order on each version of the worksheet.

• Subtraction Facts from (0 − 0) to (18 − 9) Subtraction Facts from (0 − 0) to (18 − 9) (100* Questions) ✎ Subtraction Facts from (0 − 0) to (18 − 9) (81 Questions) ✎ Subtraction Facts from (0 − 0) to (18 − 9) (64 Questions) ✎ Subtraction Facts from (0 − 0) to (18 − 9) (50 Questions) ✎ Subtraction Facts from (0 − 0) to (18 − 9) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtraction Facts from (0 − 0) to (18 − 9) (12 Very Large Print Questions) ✎
• Subtraction Facts from (2 − 1) to (18 − 9) (No Zeros) Subtraction Facts from (2 − 1) to (18 − 9) (100 Questions) ✎ Subtraction Facts from (2 − 1) to (18 − 9) (81* Questions) ✎ Subtraction Facts from (2 − 1) to (18 − 9) (64 Questions) ✎ Subtraction Facts from (2 − 1) to (18 − 9) (50 Questions) ✎ Subtraction Facts from (2 − 1) to (18 − 9) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtraction Facts from (2 − 1) to (18 − 9) (12 Very Large Print Questions) ✎
• Subtraction Facts with Minuends from 10 to 18 100 Subtraction Questions with Minuends from 10 to 18 and All Regrouping (100 Questions) 64 Subtraction Questions with Minuends from 10 to 18 and All Regrouping (64 Questions) 25 Subtraction Questions with Minuends from 10 to 18 and All Regrouping (25 Large Print Questions)

Sometimes students just need to reinforce a single number at a time which is where these worksheets come in. There are three sets of worksheets in this section, each with a different number of questions. The last set is the most interesting as there are no questions repeated. Eleven and Twelve have been included as they are essentially subtracting by 10 and 1 or 2 more.

• Subtracting Individual Focus or Target Facts (50 Questions per Page) Subtracting 0 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 1 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 2 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 3 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 4 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 5 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 6 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 7 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 8 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 9 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 10 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 11 (50 Questions) ✎ Subtracting 12 (50 Questions) ✎
• Subtracting Individual Focus or Target Facts (25 Questions per Page) Subtracting Zero (0) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtracting One (1) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtracting Two (2) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtracting Three (3) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtracting Four (4) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtracting Five (5) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtracting Six (6) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtracting Seven (7) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtracting Eight (8) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎ Subtracting Nine (9) (25 Large Print Questions) ✎
• Subtracting Individual Focus or Target Facts with Differences of 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions per Page) Subtracting One (1) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Two (2) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Three (3) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Four (4) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Five (5) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Six (6) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Seven (7) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Eight (8) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Nine (9) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Ten (10) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Eleven (11) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎ Subtracting Twelve (12) with Differences 0 to 99 (100 Unique Questions) ✎
• Horizontally Arranged Subtraction Facts with Minuends to 18 Horizontal Subtraction Facts with Minuends to 18 (100 Questions) ✎ Horizontal Subtraction Facts with Minuends to 18 (50 Questions) ✎ Horizontal Subtraction Facts with Minuends to 18 (25 Questions; Large Print) ✎
• Horizontally Arranged Subtracting 1 to 5 from 1 to 10 Horizontal Subtracting 1 to 5 from 1 to 10 (100 Questions) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 1 to 5 from 1 to 10 (50 Questions) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 1 to 5 from 1 to 10 (25 Questions; Large Print) ✎
• Horizontally Arranged Subtracting 1s and 2s from Single-Digit Minuends Horizontal Subtracting Ones from Single-Digit Minuends (25 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting Twos from Single-Digit Minuends (25 per page) ✎
• Horizontally Arranged Subtracting Individual Focus Facts Horizontal Subtracting 0s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 1s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 2s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 3s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 4s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 5s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 6s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 7s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 8s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 9s (100 per page) ✎
• Horizontally Arranged Subtracting Pairs of Individual Focus Facts Horizontal Subtracting 0s and 1s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 2s and 3s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 4s and 5s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 6s and 7s (100 per page) ✎ Horizontal Subtracting 8s and 9s (100 per page) ✎
• Subtracting a Number from Itself Subtracting a Number from Itself (Range 1 to 20)

The make ten subtraction strategy involves "spliting" the subtrahend (amount being subtracted) into two parts. The first part should be the exact amount that will reduce the minuend (the first number) to ten (or multiple of ten as the case may be) and the second part is the leftover amount. The strategy helps students internalize a mental strategy for subtracting across tens. For example, with the question 15 - 9, students first recognize that they need to subtract 5 to get 10, so they split the 9 into 5 and 4. Subtracting 5 from 15 results in 10 and subtracting 4 more results in 6, so 15 - 9 = 6. This strategy can be used any time students need to subtract "over" a multiple of ten and there are many worksheets in this section to practice it. For example, subtracting 84 - 8, students recognize that they must subtract 4 from 84 to get 80 which leaves 4 more to subtract from 80 to get 76.

• Make Ten Strategy Worksheets with 10 and Multiples of 10 Make 10 Subtraction Strategy Make 20 Subtraction Strategy Make 30 Subtraction Strategy Make 40 Subtraction Strategy Make 50 Subtraction Strategy Make 60 Subtraction Strategy Make 70 Subtraction Strategy Make 80 Subtraction Strategy Make 90 Subtraction Strategy Make Multiples of 10 Subtraction Strategy

Long Subtraction Worksheets

Try teaching a mental math strategy for subtraction called counting up. Here is how it is done:

Start with the second number (the subtrahend) and count up by tens until you find the closest value to the first number (the minuend). Keep track of how many tens you counted. Add or subtract a single digit number to get the minuend exactly then adjust the tens by that amount. For the question, 84 - 35, start at 35, and count, 45, 55, 65, 75, 85 (five tens) and one down to get 84. Five tens minus one is 49. For the question 65 - 22, start at 22 and count, 32, 42, 52, 62 (four tens) and three up to get 65. Four tens and three is 43. The previous examples used two-digit numbers, but the strategy can swiftly be modified for larger numbers. How far can your students go with it? Here is an example with three-digit numbers:

Let's use the question 927 - 648. First, count up by hundreds to 948 (that's 300). Then count down by tens to 928 (that's -20). Finally count down by ones to 927 (that's one). 300 - 20 - 1 = 279. That's almost easier than adding!

The multi-digit or long subtraction worksheets in the first part of this section are classic long subtraction worksheets with randomly generated numbers. Regrouping should be necessary about half of the time. Versions with ALL regrouping and NO regrouping follow. If you would like to see numbers with thousands separators, look a little further down and choose the appropriate version for your location.

• Subtracting up to 3-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping Subtracting 2-Digit from 2-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit from 3-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 3-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ 3-Digit Expanded Form Subtraction Subtracting 3-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎
• Subtracting up to 3-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping (Large Print) Subtracting 1-Digit from 2-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit from 2-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 1-Digit from 3-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit from 3-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 3-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 1- to 3-Digit from 1- to 3-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎
• Subtracting 4- to 9-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping Subtracting 4-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 4-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit from 6-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit from 6-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit from 7-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 7-Digit from 7-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 7-Digit from 8-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 8-Digit from 8-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 8-Digit from 9-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 9-Digit from 9-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ✎
• Subtracting 4- to 6-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping (Large Print) Subtracting 4-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 4-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit from 6-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit from 6-Digit Numbers with Some Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎

For students who need a little extra help with lining things up, these long subtraction worksheets have the digits spaced farther apart on a grid. The answer keys also show the carrying values to help diagnose where things went wrong (but hopefully they won't).

• Long Subtraction Worksheets with Grid Support 2-Digit Minus 2-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support 3-Digit Minus 2-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support 3-Digit Minus 3-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support 4-Digit Minus 3-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support 4-Digit Minus 4-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support 5-Digit Minus 4-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support 5-Digit Minus 5-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support 6-Digit Minus 5-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support 6-Digit Minus 6-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support 2- to 4-Digit Minus 2- to 4-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support 3- to 6-Digit Minus 3- to 6-Digit Subtraction With Grid Support

The next long subtraction worksheets include questions that require regrouping at every step. They can be frustrating and difficult for students who are not familiar with the concept of subtraction. Try showing them with base ten blocks how regrouping works.

• Subtracting up to 3-Digit Numbers with All Regrouping Subtracting 1-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ✎
• Subtracting up to 3-Digit Numbers with All Regrouping (Large Print) Subtracting 1-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎
• Subtracting 4- to 8-Digit Numbers with All Regrouping Subtracting 4-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 7-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 8-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ✎
• Subtracting 4- to 6-Digit Numbers with All Regrouping (Large Print) Subtracting 4-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎

Some students require a little extra help when learning to subtract large numbers. These subtraction worksheets include questions where the regrouping step has been eliminated. This might help students learn a subtraction algorithm before learning about regrouping.

• Subtracting up to 3-Digit Numbers with No Regrouping Subtracting 2-Digit from 2-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit from 3-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 3-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎
• Subtracting up to 3-Digit Numbers with No Regrouping (Large Print) Subtracting 2-Digit from 2-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit from 3-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 3-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎
• Subtracting 4- to 9-Digit Numbers with No Regrouping Subtracting 4-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit from 6-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 7-Digit from 7-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 8-Digit from 8-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎ Subtracting 9-Digit from 9-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ✎
• Subtracting 4- to 6-Digit Numbers with No Regrouping (Large Print) Subtracting 4-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit from 6-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping ( Large Print ) ✎

Why horizontal subtraction worksheets? Students can show their understanding of place value and number sense if they do not already have the numbers lined up. Vertical subtraction is often learned based on a student's understanding of single-digit subtraction, but looking at the whole number is lost in the algorithm.

• Horizontally Arranged 2-Digit Minus 1-Digit Questions 2-digit Minus 1-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (100 Questions) ✎ 2-digit Minus 1-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (50 Questions) ✎ 2-digit Minus 1-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (25 Questions; Large Print) ✎
• Horizontally Arranged 2-Digit Minus 2-Digit Questions 2-digit Minus 2-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (100 Questions) ✎ 2-digit Minus 2-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (50 Questions) ✎ 2-digit Minus 2-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (25 Questions; Large Print) ✎
• Horizontally Arranged 3-Digit Minus 1-Digit Questions 3-digit Minus 1-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (100 Questions) ✎ 3-digit Minus 1-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (50 Questions) ✎ 3-digit Minus 1-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (25 Questions; Large Print) ✎
• Horizontally Arranged 3-Digit Minus 2-Digit Questions 3-digit Minus 2-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (50 Questions) ✎ 3-digit Minus 2-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (25 Questions; Large Print) ✎ 3-Digit Minus 2-Digit Horizontal Subtraction ( All Regrouping ; 100 Questions)
• Horizontally Arranged 3-Digit Minus 3-Digit Questions 3-Digit Minus 3-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (50 Questions) ✎ 3-Digit Minus 3-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (25 Questions; Large Print) ✎
• Horizontally Arranged Various-Digit Minus Various-Digit Questions Various-Digit Minus Various-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (50 Questions) ✎ Various-Digit Minus Various-Digit Horizontal Subtraction (25 Questions; Large Print) ✎

Many students in English-speaking countries are used to seeing numbers with comma-separated thousands.

• Long Subtraction Worksheets with Comma Separated Thousands Subtracting 2-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 4-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 4-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Comma Separated) ✎ Mixture of Multi-Digit Subtraction from 2 to 4 digits (Comma Separated) ✎ Mixture of Multi-Digit Subtraction from 2 to 5 digits (Comma Separated) ✎
• Long Subtraction Worksheets with Comma Separated Thousands and All Regrouping Subtracting 4-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 7-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 8-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Comma Separated) ✎
• Long Subtraction Worksheets with Comma Separated Thousands and No Regrouping Subtracting 5-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit from 6-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 7-Digit from 7-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 8-Digit from 8-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Comma Separated) ✎ Subtracting 9-Digit from 9-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Comma Separated) ✎

Space-separated thousands are becoming more widely used, including in the United States. Canadian students have used both comma separated and space separated thousands for many years.

• Long Subtraction Worksheets with Space Separated Thousands Subtracting 2-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 4-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 4-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Space Separated) ✎ Mixture of Multi-Digit Subtraction from 2 to 4 digits (Space Separated) ✎ Mixture of Multi-Digit Subtraction from 2 to 5 digits (Space Separated) ✎
• Long Subtraction Worksheets with Space Separated Thousands and All Regrouping Subtracting 4-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 7-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 8-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Space Separated) ✎
• Long Subtraction Worksheets with Space Separated Thousands and No Regrouping Subtracting 5-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit from 6-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 7-Digit from 7-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 8-Digit from 8-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Space Separated) ✎ Subtracting 9-Digit from 9-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Space Separated) ✎

Even though period separated thousands are not common in the English-speaking world, we provide these for our friends in other countries who may find them useful.

• Long Subtraction Worksheets with Period Separated Thousands Subtracting 2-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 4-Digit from 4-Digit Numbers (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 2-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 3-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 4-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers (Period Separated) ✎ Mixture of Multi-Digit Subtraction from 2 to 4 digits (Period Separated) ✎ Mixture of Multi-Digit Subtraction from 2 to 5 digits (Period Separated) ✎
• Long Subtraction Worksheets with Period Separated Thousands and All Regrouping Subtracting 4-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 5-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 7-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 8-Digit Numbers with ALL Regrouping (Period Separated) ✎
• Long Subtraction Worksheets with Period Separated Thousands and No Regrouping Subtracting 5-Digit from 5-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 6-Digit from 6-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 7-Digit from 7-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 8-Digit from 8-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Period Separated) ✎ Subtracting 9-Digit from 9-Digit Numbers with NO Regrouping (Period Separated) ✎

Various Other Long Subtraction Worksheets

Generally, a student would not regroup to determine the complements of 10, 100, 1000, etc. One strategy that could be used is as follows: working from left to right, a student would take each digit in the subtrahend and figure out its nines complement. If the digit was 3, for example, the nines complement of 3 is 6. For the last digit (ones), the student would use the tens complement. For example, a typical question is 1000 - 456. The nines complement of 4 is 5, the nines complement of 5 is 4 and the tens complement of 6 is 4. Putting it all together, the student would get 5 4 4 or 544 = 1000 - 456.

• Calculating Complements of Powers of Ten (Subtracting Across Zeros) Complements of 10 Complements of 100 Complements of 1000 Complements of 10000 Complements of 100 and 1000 Complements of 1000 and 10000 Complements of 100, 1000 and 10000

A similar strategy is employed with the next worksheets except students must adapt to calculating the largest place value number.

• Calculating Complements of Multiples of Powers of Ten (Subtracting Across Zeros) Subtracting from multiples of 10 Subtracting from multiples of 100 Subtracting from multiples of 1000 Subtracting from multiples of 10000 Subtracting from a mixture of multiples of 100 and 1000 Subtracting from a mixture of multiples of 1000 and 10000 Subtracting from a mixture of multiples of 100, 1000 and 10000

These worksheets are meant to give students practice dealing with 0's in the middles of subtraction questions. Whether using pencil and paper or mental arithmetic, it is always a good idea to make sure students know what to do when they encounter zeros.

• Subtracting Across Zeros in the Middle (Ones Always Need Regrouping) 3-Digit Subtraction across zeros in the middle ( Ones always need regrouping ) 4-Digit Subtraction across zeros in the middle ( Ones always need regrouping ) 5-Digit Subtraction across zeros in the middle ( Ones always need regrouping )
• Subtracting Across Zeros in the Middle (Ones Sometimes Need Regrouping) 3-Digit Subtraction across zeros in the middle ( Ones sometimes need regrouping ) 4-Digit Subtraction across zeros in the middle ( Ones sometimes need regrouping ) 5-Digit Subtraction across zeros in the middle ( Ones sometimes need regrouping )

Subtracting numbers in number systems other than decimal numbers including binary, quaternary, octal, duodecimal and hexadecimal numbers.

• Subtracting in Other Base Number Systems Subtracting Binary Numbers (Base 2) Subtracting Ternary Numbers (Base 3) Subtracting Quaternary Numbers (Base 4) Subtracting Quinary Numbers (Base 5) Subtracting Senary Numbers (Base 6) Subtracting Octal Numbers (Base 8) Subtracting Duodecimal Numbers (Base 12) Subtracting Hexadecimal Numbers (Base 16) Subtracting Vigesimal Numbers (Base 20) Subtracting Hexatrigesimal Numbers (Base 36) Subtracting Various Numbers (Various Bases)

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7 Engaging Subtraction Activities

Just when your students have started to get the hang of addition, it's time to have them work their brains in the opposite way with subtraction. It can be tricky for students to grasp the concept of “taking away” when they're used to adding numbers together. These engaging subtraction activities for kindergarten will help your students train their brains to master this key math skill.

#1. Subtraction Bowling

This subtraction activity for kindergarten is engaging and so much fun for students. You can play in whole group or small groups. To play subtraction bowling, simply set up 10 plastic party cups or toilet paper tubes in the shape of bowling pins. Stagger them in rows, 4 in the back row, then 3, 2, and 1 “bowling pin” in the front. Use a small ball to go bowling.

Students will take turns rolling the ball to see how many bowling pins they knock over. Each student will write the subtraction problem on whiteboards and read the subtraction sentence aloud. For example, if one student knocks down 5 bowling pins, all students will write 10-5=5. This activity works great if played in an open area of your classroom or even in the hallway. 

You can also grab your own bowling set to keep in your classroom. You could use this for several activities, including subtraction bowling, addition bowling, number recognition, color recognition, indoor recess , and more. Talk about working those gross motor skills, too!

#2. Subtraction to 10 Boom Cards

This engaging subtraction activity for kindergarten is the perfect way to incorporate technology into your math lessons. Students will solve subtraction problems on 30 digital task cards. Each task card has audio directions so your students know exactly what to do to be successful. Use this as a whole group or small group activity, independent learning center, or assessment.

Not only will your students have fun moving the digital bees into the honey jar to solve the problem and type their answer, but they'll love getting instant feedback on their answers. Plus, that means less grading and no prep for you as the teacher. These subtraction to 10 Boom Cards are great for active learners, visual learners, and auditory learners. 

#3. Act It Out

Act it out is a hands-on and engaging subtraction activity that encourages teamwork and collaboration amongst students. To play, line students up in a ten-frame shape. You can even use painters tape to make a giant ten-frame. Start by making the outside perimeter, then do a long strip down the middle and smaller strips to make the 10 sections.

Have students take turns standing in the spaces to represent 10 counters. Read a subtraction story problem aloud and have students act the problem out, using themselves as counters in the ten-frame. Have them all say the subtraction sentence aloud. You can also have them write it on a white board.

Act It Out-Dice Edition

For another way to play, have students line up in the ten-frame. Students will take turns rolling a large foam dice . Whatever number they land on is the number of students that will be taken away from the ten-frame. 

#4. Roll and Race

Roll and Race is a kid favorite subtraction activity for kindergarten. It brings an element of excitement and competition to your subtraction lessons that is highly motivating for kids. There are 30 no prep games included, 10 addition, 10 subtraction, and 10 mixed practice. 

Students will roll a dice and match the number to the column on their game board. They'll solve the first available problem, either coloring in or covering the space with a manipulative when they've solved it correctly. Students can play independently or with a partner to race to see who can fill a column up first. 

#5. Play Dough Smash

Just the name of this subtraction activity for kindergarten sounds like fun, doesn't it? To play this hands-on game, roll play dough into 10 small balls. This is great fine motor practice as well as size comparison practice for your students. Then, lay the play dough in a ten-frame pattern.

Write subtraction equations on a notecard or sticky note. Students will draw a problem and model it with their play dough by smashing the play dough balls they need to take away. After they've solved it, they can write their subtraction sentence on a white board and roll their play dough back into shape to play again.

#6. Know and Show

Know and Show is another hands-on subtraction activity for kindergarten to help them learn to solve equations and model them using a variety of strategies, including modeling with manipulatives, using a number line, using a ten-frame, and using number bonds.

Students will read the math sentence on the activity card and solve using the strategy shown on the addition or subtraction mat. Then, they'll show their answer using either dry-erase markers, magnetic numbers, number tiles, etc. There are 130 different addition and subtraction problem cards included for a ton of meaningful practice and differentiation. 

#7. Cookie Flip

Subtraction Cookie Flip is a math center treat your students will love. Using cardstock or foam circle cutouts, have your students decorate the circles to look like cookies. You can have students decorate 5 cookies each if you're playing in partners or 10 cookies each if playing independently.

To play, place 10 cookies on a cookie sheet. Students will roll the dice, flipping that number of cookies over with a flat spatula to model the subtraction problem. They can write the equation on a whiteboard for extra practice. If playing in partners, students will take turns rolling, flipping, and solving. 

Bonus: Addition and Subtraction to 10 Bundle

If you're loving the subtraction activities for kindergarten included in this blog post, you can check out all 9 games, activity mats, and worksheets included in this low prep, highly engaging addition and subtraction to 10 bundle . The activities included are perfect for learning all year long. 

Your students will have their brains trained for subtraction and be mastering the art of “take away” in no time. I hope you and your students have a blast with these subtraction activities for kindergarten!

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Addition and Subtraction Activities for Kids: FUNdamental Methods

Addition and subtraction activities for kids that build math fact fluency and teach ways of solving word problems in hands-on ways.

Are you tired of searching Pinterest or googling to find engaging, hands-on addition, and subtraction activities for kids? Are you looking for lessons and activity ideas that are fun and build a strong understanding of addition and subtraction? Then you have come to the right place!

Here you will find a ton of math tips and strategies for teaching addition and subtraction in primary grades. The ideas collected here will help you bring addition and subtraction activities, games, and centers into your classroom or home.

The activities, books, math units (linked in resources below), and other resource suggestions ( including a FREE one ) cover a ton of addition and subtraction concepts. Plus, find valuable addition and subtraction materials and manipulative recommendations, as well as freebies you can access today! This post is filled with a ton of value for you as you teach.

Addition and Subtraction Activities & Concepts

Children should have daily experiences with addition and subtraction strategies and activities. There are many opportunities to teach addition and subtraction strategies and solve problems throughout the day. This does not only happen at school in the classroom. These opportunities can be initiated as they arise in our daily situations, such as a story in a book, setting the table, putting clothes away, and so forth.

When children are first taught these strategies, I recommend beginning with addition. Develop a strong understanding of those concepts and strategies first before moving on to teaching subtraction. Many activities that can be used to teach addition can also be used to teach subtraction. Use some activities to show their inverse relationship explicitly.

Use math manipulatives and tools to help children solve problems in hands-on ways. Eventually, we want children to solve addition and subtraction problems when they arise mentally. Whether it be a problem on a worksheet or a real-life problem they need to solve, we want them to remember and apply the strategies they have been taught.

The activities below are ones that will help develop an understanding of and build fluency with addition and subtraction. Use them as they are described or adapt them to your own needs. Solve problems together and ask questions that encourage mental computation. When a child asks an addition or subtraction question, remind them of the strategies they’ve learned to solve it themselves. Make time for fun and engaging addition and subtraction activities daily in your math center and free play areas.

Teaching Addition & Subtraction Strategies

There are many addition and subtraction strategies that should be taught when children are young. Learning different strategies helps empower them to choose what works for them at that moment. When children are young, they tend to rely heavily on using hands-on manipulatives to solve equations. As they develop new skills and learn new strategies, they build their mental math skills and require math tools less often.

• Create a detailed anchor chart together as a class or use one that is pre-made . Add on new procedures as they are taught and practiced.

• Probably the first strategy that children will learn is how to count, add, and subtract using their fingers. This is an excellent tool for kids because they always have them there to use. Practice using fingers to solve basic addition and subtraction equations within ten often. Teach counting on and back using fingers to help solve the harder equations within 20.

• Teach children how to solve addition and subtraction equations using small objects, such as snap cubes , counting bears , popsicle sticks , and two-colored counters . These hands-on tools are great for our tactile learners who need to feel and manipulate to understand and solve.
• Teach children how to draw pictures to solve equations. They can draw pictures to represent what they hear in the story or simple shapes to draw things quickly. This helps children visualize and solve problems.

Addition & Subtraction Activities & Games

Make learning and practicing addition and subtraction fun with a variety of hands-on activities and games for kids!

• Get kids up and moving with the human number line math game .
• Play subtraction bowling. Set up ten bowling pins (or cups) and use a ball to knock some down. Record subtraction equations to represent what is left standing (i.e. 10 pins – ? = ?).
• Use a sectioned plate and small objects to practice solving equations. Kids can count objects into different sections and move them to find the answer. This is an ideal way to teach and show the part – part- whole strategy. You can find these plates at Ikea.

• Kids love playing board games. Find some to practice math facts.

• Play addition and subtraction games with a deck of cards. One simple one is Addition War: Each player turns over two cards, adds them up, and the player with the higher number gets the cards. Play until one player loses all of their cards.

• Games with dice are a blast! Kids can roll, count, and add/subtract easily with the dot representations. Great as an independent game! A lot of fun can be had using these jumbo dice in dice !

• Kids can roll balls of PlayDoh to represent the first number in a subtraction equation. Then, “smash away” the second number to find the answer.

• Solve equations and clip the answer with clips. Make them self-checking with a start on the back where the clip should go.

Solving Addition & Subtraction Word Problems

Children need to learn to solve word problems. As teachers, we need to teach them how to read a problem, look for critical information, understand what is being asked, and solve the problem. This is an essential first skill for children to build that will help them solve problems in the future.

• The simplest way to teach solving word problems is to give simple problems and solve them together as a class. Read the problem slowly together and determine what is being asked. Draw pictures to represent the numbers in the problem. Count along to find the answer and record the equation to show.
• Give children math journals and daily word problems to solve independently.
• Read picture books that have word problems in them. Discuss and solve together. Check out the list of books at the end for ideas!
• Use dot to dot markers to quickly represent numbers and solve word problems in a fun way.

• Provide story mats and small objects to solve word problems.

• Read examples of word problems and match them together with an equation it represents.

Tools to Use for Teaching Addition and Subtraction

There are a ton of useful math tools available to help teach addition and subtraction strategies. These tools are helpful for our youngest learners and help illustrate concepts well. Try a variety of tools in your classroom to keep things fresh and fun!

• Rekenreks are a fun tool to help students make sense of numbers, subitize, build fluency, and solve equations. Check out One Sharp Bunch’s class set of Rekenrek boards.

• Lego is a super versatile toy. It can be used not only for building but for adding pieces together and taking them apart.
• Dominoes can be used to practice basic addition. The dots on the dominoes make them an ideal tool for beginners.ten frames & cubes
• Ten frames help organize numbers and quantities around the number 10. Children can easily see when there is ten present, and this visual way of adding and taking away is helpful.

• The hundred chart is a versatile tool with many uses. A chart can be used easily to solve equations.

• Number lines are another important tool that children should have exposure too. Use it to solve equations quickly by moving forward or back to find answers.

• Counters are a teacher’s favorite tool for counting and solving equations. They require children to count at each step of the solving process. Two-color counters are useful for solving 2 number equations.

Fact Fluency & Mental Math

Eventually, we want our students to be fluent with math facts, but this takes time. If children start practicing math facts early on, they will begin to build fluency and their mental math abilities. Make sure that your goal is never rote memorization but as a way of encouraging the use of mental math.

• Play fun games with flashcards. Have children line up in pairs and flash them a card. The quickest player gets the card and a point. Rotate through all the kids multiple times.
• Practice math facts in a sticker book. For every math fact that is answered correctly, get rewarded with a sticker!
• Keep sets of flashcards on rings or in pockets for kids to practice independently or with a partner. Put the answers on the back, so they are self-checking.

• Practice sorting math facts under the correct answer. Set up math center equation sort in a pocket chart.

Relationship between Addition & Subtraction

Children need to understand that addition and subtraction have an inverse relationship. It is important to teach the commutative property (“flip flop” strategy) and associative property.

• Play “flip flop” match game to look for sets of equations that follow the commutative property.

• Teach fact families, and that three numbers can be written like four different equations (2 addition and two subtraction).

• Practice decomposing whole numbers into its parts.

Addition & Subtraction Activities for Kids Resources

The activities seen in this post are available in the following resources.

Addition to 10 Math Unit Kindergarten

Subtraction to 10 Math Unit Kindergarten

Addition to 10 Math Unit First Grade

Addition to 20 Math Unit First Grade

Subtraction to 10 Math Unit First Grade

Subtraction to 20 Math Unit First Grade

2-Digit Addition Unit Second Grade

3-Digit Addition Unit Second Grade

2-Digit Subtraction Unit Second Grade

3-Digit Subtraction Unit Second Grade

Free True or False Addition Equation Sort

Teach students the meaning of the equal sign, and help them determine if equations involving addition are true or false.

Grab a FREE true or false addition equation sort by clicking the image below .

Addition & Subtraction Books

The Action of Subtraction by Brian Cleary The Mission of Addition by Brian Cleary If You Were a Minus Sign by Trisha Shaskan If You Were a Plus Sign by Trisha Shaskan Monster Musical Chairs by Stuart J. Murphy Double the Ducks by Stuart J. Murphy Domino Addition by Lynette Long Subtraction Action by Loreen Leedy Mission Addition by Loreen Leedy Quack & Count by Keith Baker Ten For Me by Barbara Mariconda Equal Schmequal by Virginia Kroll Math Fables: Lessons That Count by Greg Tang Ten Sly Piranhas by William Wise Monster Math Picnic by Grace Maccarone 1+1=5: and Other Unlikely Additions by David Rochelle Ready, Set, Hop by Stuart J. Murphy What’s New at the Zoo: An Animal Adding Adventure by Suzanne Slade Animals on Board by Stuart J. Murphy

Addition & Subtraction Materials

Try the Mindful Math Comprehensive Program

Read about the Mindful Math program and how it can change your math block in positive ways! This comprehensive math curriculum is available for Kindergarten , first grade , and second grade .

More Fun Addition and Subtraction Activities for Kids!

Number of the Day Activities

Number Sense Activities to 20

Shapes for Kids

Subtraction Strategies

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Series Mathematical Modeling with Three-Act Tasks: Three-Act Tasks: Modeling Subtraction

Common core State Standards

• Math:  Math
• Practice:  Mathematical Practice Standards
• MP1:  Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them. Mathematically proficient students start by explaining to themselves the meaning of a problem and looking for entry points to its solution. They analyze givens, constraints, relationships, and goals. They make conjectures about the form and meaning of the solution and plan a solution pathway rather than simply jumping into a solution attempt. They consider analogous problems, and try special cases and simpler forms of the original problem in order to gain insight into its solution. They monitor and evaluate their progress and change course if necessary. Older students might, depending on the context of the problem, transform algebraic expressions or change the viewing window on their graphing calculator to get the information they need. Mathematically proficient students can explain correspondences between equations, verbal descriptions, tables, and graphs or draw diagrams of important features and relationships, graph data, and search for regularity or trends. Younger students might rely on using concrete objects or pictures to help conceptualize and solve a problem. Mathematically proficient students check their answers to problems using a different method, and they continually ask themselves, \"Does this make sense?\" They can understand the approaches of others to solving complex problems and identify correspondences between different approaches.

Download Common Core State Standards (PDF 1.2 MB)

• MP4:  Model with mathematics. Mathematically proficient students can apply the mathematics they know to solve problems arising in everyday life, society, and the workplace. In early grades, this might be as simple as writing an addition equation to describe a situation. In middle grades, a student might apply proportional reasoning to plan a school event or analyze a problem in the community. By high school, a student might use geometry to solve a design problem or use a function to describe how one quantity of interest depends on another. Mathematically proficient students who can apply what they know are comfortable making assumptions and approximations to simplify a complicated situation, realizing that these may need revision later. They are able to identify important quantities in a practical situation and map their relationships using such tools as diagrams, two-way tables, graphs, flowcharts and formulas. They can analyze those relationships mathematically to draw conclusions. They routinely interpret their mathematical results in the context of the situation and reflect on whether the results make sense, possibly improving the model if it has not served its purpose.
• 2:  Grade 2
• OA:  Operations & Algebraic Thinking
• A:  Represent and solve problems involving addition and subtraction
• 1:  Use addition and subtraction within 100 to solve one- and two-step word problems involving situations of adding to, taking from, putting together, taking apart, and comparing, with unknowns in all positions, e.g., by using drawings and equations with a symbol for the unknown number to represent the problem. Drawings need not show details, but should show the mathematics in the problem. (This applies wherever drawings are mentioned in the Standards.)
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Three-Act Tasks: Modeling Subtraction

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Discussion and Supporting Materials

• Supporting Materials

Thought starters

• How does Act 1 engage students with the problem?
• How are students given opportunities to learn from each other?
• How could you use Three-Act Tasks in your classroom?

Berky Lugo Salcedo Jan 9, 2018 9:38am

Sailaja Vittaldev Oct 8, 2017 9:13am

Skylar Dolezel Feb 20, 2017 2:58pm

Araceli Valtierra Nov 13, 2016 6:29pm

Sandra Brown Sep 13, 2016 3:28pm

Lesson Plans

• Lesson Plan: Modeling Subtraction.PDF

Three-Act Tasks: Modeling Subtraction Transcript

• Worksheet: Recording Sheet.PDF

External Resource Materials

• Cookie Monster Task from gfletchy.com

Transcripts

Card: Tch TeachingChannel

+++ 00:00:04 +++ Student: Sixteen plus 16 equals 32, plus 16 is 48. Sarah Dietz: So how many cookies did the cookie monster east? Student: Twenty-two

Card: Three-Act Tasks: Modeling Subtraction Card: 2nd Grade Mathematics Graham Hill Elementary, Seattle WA

+++ 00:00:19 +++ Sarah Dietz: Mathematicians, thank you for coming quickly and quietly to the carpet. Miss Ellen is here today and we are going to do some mathematical thinking.

Lower Third: Ellen Kleyman K-2nd Grade Mathematics Specialist Graham Hill Elementary, Seattle WA Sarah Dietz: We know that mathematicians solve problems without giving up.

+++ 00:00:33 +++ Sarah Dietz: Today's lesson was a three act task. In a three act task, students are able to think about math in a real world context and think about what it means to them to solve a problem in the real world.

Lower Third: Sarah Dietz 2nd Grade Teacher Graham Hill Elementary, Seattle WA Sarah Dietz: And they approach it in that way. Instead of thinking, "What is the equation that I need to solve in order to answer this problem?"

Card: Common Core State Standard Math Practice 4: Modeling with Mathematics. Students apply the mathematics they know to solve Problems in contextual situations.

+++ 00:00:50 +++ Sarah Dietz: They're able to think about, "What is this problem really asking? What do I need to do to solve this problem?" And it is a genuine problem for them to be solving, instead of a code that they're trying to break.

Card: Act One The class discusses a high interest Video or picture of a real-world situation

+++ 00:01:03 +++ Sarah Dietz: Today, I'm going to show you a video, and I want you to be thinking about, what are you wondering during that video? Eyes on the screen. Student: What is that? Student:

+++ 00:01:29 +++ Sarah Dietz: It's high interest video for the kids. They were instantly engrossed and already formulating questions while they were watching. Student: He laid the table.

Sarah Dietz: I want everyone to stop and think right now. don't say anything yet. And I want you to be thinking, what did you notice in that video? You've got a couple noticing. Show me that you're ready. Turn and tell your partner, what did you see?

+++ 00:02:00 +++ Student: It looks like he was just punching the baggie and put it back up with all of them in. Ellen: Oh. Sarah Dietz: To them, it's not a math lesson. It's a puzzle that needs to be solved. It's a problem that they want to work out. Sarah Dietz: What did you notice about the video, Ahmed? Student: That the cookie monster took the bag and eat it.

+++ 00:02:15 +++ Sarah Dietz: cookie monster took the cookies. What are we wondering about with this cookie monster and these Oreo cookies? What are we wondering? Tashaun? Student: I'm wondering, what was that white hand. Sarah Dietz: What was the white hand? Okay. What else are we wondering? Amina?

+++ 00:02:43 +++ Student: I wonder how much cookies are in each row. Sarah Dietz: You're wondering how many cookies in each row. Lina? Student: I wonder how many cookies are in the box. Sarah Dietz: You were wondering how many were in the box to begin with? I'm going to be able to tell you that, yes.

+++ 00:02:59 +++ Sarah Dietz: We wrote down what we noticed about the video, and then wrote down what we were wondering about the video. From there we then pinpointed, what was the problem we wanted to solve.

Card: Act Two The class identifies the information needed To answer a mathematical question about The situation

+++ 00:03:11 +++ Sarah Dietz: I think that's really the big question we're wondering, isn't it? How many cookies did the cookie monster eat? How can we figure this out? What do we need to know? Aaron. Student: How many was there in the beginning? Sarah Dietz: How many there were in the beginning? Okay. Elijah? Student: How many cookies are in each row. Sarah Dietz: How many cookies are in each row. Do you guys want to see a picture of what inside of the Oreo package looks like? Students: Uh-huh. Ellen: Ready? Student: There's three. Ellen: Voila. Student: What? Student: What? Sarah Dietz: This is what-- Student: He didn't eat none of them.

+++ 00:03:43 +++ Sarah Dietz: Family-- this is before he ate them. This is what a family sized package of Oreos looks like, and there are 16 cookies in each row. Student: What's after-- Sarah Dietz: Do you need more info? Is this not enough information? Student: After. Student: Yes. Student: No, it's not. Sarah Dietz: Okay, what other information do you guys want? Tam? Student: How many were left after the cookie monster ate it.

+++ 00:04:08 +++ Sarah Dietz: You want to see what it looks like after? Student: Yeah. Student: Yeah. Ellen: Okay, ready? Student: Wow. Student: Are you serious? Student: No, this is going to be... Sarah Dietz: So this is how many are left after he ate his cookies. I'm going to give you this picture for you to take back with you to your seats. Student: Please.

+++ 00:04:27 +++ Sarah Dietz: So this is what you're going to do now. You're going to go work with your partner. You are going to solve our problem. How many cookies did the cookie monster eat? I want you to show your work. Sarah Dietz: How many cookies did the cookie monster eat? Why do we want to add three 16s?

Card: Common Core State Standard Solve addition and subtraction word problems.

+++ 00:04:51 +++ Student: Because that's the number of Oreos we had. Sarah Dietz: There were 16 Oreos in each row, so you want to add three 16s. Ellen: Why did you cross out six, Ahmed's asking? Student: I crossed out six because the cookie monster ate six. Sarah Dietz: What did you do? Student: I counted how much was left in the box. Sarah Dietz: Can you show me how you counted them? Student: One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine. So this one's nine and this one's 11, this one's six. Sarah Dietz: Then what did you do? Student: Then I counted how much was missing.

+++ 00:05:24 +++ Sarah Dietz: So you figured out each row individually. You know that ten is missing from here, five is missing from here and seven is missing from here. What now are you going to do? Student: I want to see how much the cookie he ate, how much he ate. Sarah Dietz: Yeah, okay. Student: So ten plus five, 15. Sarah Dietz: Mm-hmm. Student: Fifteen plus five is 20, plus two is 22.

+++ 00:05:51 +++ Sarah Dietz: So how many of the cookies did the cookie monster eat? Student: 2; Twenty-two.

Card: Common Core State Standard Math Practice 1: Make sense of problems And persevere in solving them. Sarah Dietz: You kind of ran into a little bit of a problem here, and you didn't go, "Oh, this is too hard. I'm giving up." You just kept at it and you kept solving it until you figured it out. Nice work.

+++ 00:06:04 +++ Sarah Dietz: So once the students were done solving their problems, the third act would be that they come back to the carpet and share their thinking with one another.

Card: Act Three The problem is resolved and students share Solution strategies. Sarah Dietz: This one was interesting because there was two different ways to do it. They could subtract the remaining number from the total, or they could find the difference. Sarah Dietz: All right, Luis, can you tell us what you were thinking? Student: What I was thinking is that there was 48. Sarah Dietz: There was 48 cookies at the beginning, okay. Student: And then I counted back to see if there was 26. So I counted 22 back.

+++ 00:06:33 +++ Sarah Dietz: So you made a big hop of ten and landed on 38. Made another big hop of ten and landed on 28, and then made two little hops and landed on 26. So where is the answer on Luis's number line? Penny? Student: At the top, where the circle is in the ten and the 20. Sarah Dietz: So this ten, this ten and this two? And so we need to add these up together? So how many cookies did the cookie monster eat? Student: Twenty-two.

+++ 00:07:04 +++ Sarah Dietz: Twenty-two. All right, thank you for sharing, Luis. Sarah Dietz: There's a range of strategies. Some of them figured out how many were left and were subtracting that from the total. Some of them were adding up to get to the total. Sarah Dietz: Notice what's the same and notice what's different. Okay, Aaron, what did you do first? Student: I did 16 plus 16 plus 16 equals question? But then I decomposed it to ten and six and the other 16s to ten and six. And then ten plus ten plus ten equals 30. Then six plus six plus six equals 18. So 18 plus 30 equals 48.

+++ 00:07:45 +++ Sarah Dietz: So what does this 48 represent? Forty-eight what? Student: Cookies. Sarah Dietz: At first, before the cookie monster started eating. Okay. Then what did you do? Student: I did 48 minus 26. I decomposed the 48 to 40 and 8 and 26 into 20 and 6. Forty minus 20 equals 20 and eight minus six equals two. So 20 plus two equals 22. Sarah Dietz: And what does this represent? Student: The answer.

+++ 00:08:17 +++ Sarah Dietz: Yeah, the cookie monster ate 22 cookies. What do you see that is the same, and what did you see that is different between Aaron's way and Luis's way? Elijah? Student: I noticed that Luis subtracted. He minused until he got to the answer of how much are left, and Aaron subtracted till he got to how much he ate. Twenty-two is how much he ate, and 26 is how much is left

+++ 00:08:46 +++ Sarah Dietz: So I think what I'm hearing you say, Elijah, is that Luis started at 48 and he subtracted back until he got to 26. Student: Sarah Dietz: And Aaron started at 48, subtracted 26 and then found out, got the 22. Two different ways to think about it.

+++ 00:09:07 +++ Sarah Dietz: It's really exciting to see the kids have such high interest in these problems. My hope and my desire is to just look around their world and making those real world connections for them, highlighting for them that math is an everyday thing. They're solving math problems all the time without knowing it. Ellen: So how many did the cookie monster eat? All: Twenty-two.

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Years 3 & 4: Addition and Subtraction

This list consists of visual resources, activities and games designed to support the new curriculum programme of study in Years 3 and 4. Containing tips on using the resources  and suggestions for further use it covers:

Year 3 : adding and subtracting numbers up to 3 digits mentally and using formal methods, estimating answers, using inverse operations to check answers and solving problems.

Year 4 : adding and subtracting numbers up to 4 digits using formal methods, estimating answers, using inverse operations to check answers and solving two step addition and subtraction problems.

Visit the primary mathematics webpage to access all lists.

'Wave 3 materials': supporting children with gaps in their mathematical understanding

Quality Assured Category: Mathematics Publisher: Department for Education

These booklets highlight common errors and misconceptions in addition and subtraction children may hold in KS2. E.g. page 23 highlights a possible reason for calculation errors; that a child may not yet be secure in number bonds to 20. An activity is detailed to help develop the child's understanding and help to fill in any gaps in their learning. A great resource for supporting small groups or individuals.

Quality Assured Category: Mathematics Publisher: SMILE

Three resource packs contains work cards including games, activities and calculations based around simple counting, number bonds to ten, addition using money and adding two and three digit numbers. Some activities use base ten to support column addition, others practise addition through games and investigation. They start with simple addition and extend to more difficult tasks.

Subtraction

Six work cards for running activities on subtracting two digit numbers using physical apparatus and using the column method. One card demonstrates how base ten apparatus may be used to aid subtraction of two digit numbers from two digit numbers. This could be extended to subtract two digit numbers from three digit numbers. It also includes games to practise subtraction.

Calculation Activities for Students Aged 7-9

Quality Assured Category: Mathematics Publisher: Nelson Thornes

A collection of worksheets which can be used to reinforce calculation skills. They are useful for homework or as a reinforcement of key ideas.

This selection of games may be laminated and used by children to practise calculation with many games on addition and subtraction. Use as a starter, activity with small groups, to extend or support or even for homework. The games practise addition subtraction with 1 or 3 digits.

NRICH: A Daring Dozen

Twelve resources to help children get you thinking mathematically.

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Addition and Subtraction Problem Solving Task Cards

Updated:  16 Feb 2023

Practice solving 1- and 2-step word problems by adding and subtracting 2-digit numbers with this set of 16 task cards.

Non-Editable:  PDF

• Curriculum Curriculum:  AUS V8, AUS V9

Years:  3 - 4

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Apply place value to partition, rearrange and regroup numbers to at least 10 000 to assist calculations and solve problems

Add and subtract two- and three-digit numbers using place value to partition, rearrange and regroup numbers to assist in calculations without a calculator

In this maths activity, your students will continue building the relationship between addition and subtraction while honing their skills for solving word problems .

Students will have to  decide whether to use their subtraction or addition to solve the number sentences.

With our task cards, students will show that they can use addition and subtraction strategies to solve 1- and 2-step word problems to find the difference or the sum within 100. 

How to use these addition and subtraction task cards

Provide each student with a recording sheet (included) and the task cards. Students will solve for the sum or difference and write their answer in the corresponding space on the recording sheet. 

An answer key is included for students to check their answers independently.   

Use these task cards with mini whiteboards, maths workbooks and smartboards for a quick maths warm-up .

Additional support and extension

For students who need more support honing this skill, use the task cards in your guided maths group and limit the number of word problems.  Provide students with manipulatives when adding and subtracting or encourage them to draw pictures to help them solve the problems.

Challenge fast finishers who already understand the concept to partner up with a peer, split the cards, and take turns orally explaining how they arrived at their answers. This action allows students to slow down and think through the logic they used to solve the problem. 

One resource with multiple applications!

Here are some other ways you might like to use these task cards in your maths lesson.

Divide your class into two team lines and provide the two students at the front of each line with a whiteboard. Show a task card to the students and have them solve for the sum on their board. The student that answers correctly first wins the card, and both students go to the back of the line, handing their whiteboard to the next competitors. The team with the most task cards at the end of the game wins!

Scoot Activity

Place the cards around the room in numerical order and give each student a recording sheet. Assign students or pairs to a starting point card. Give students time to review the card and record their answer in the corresponding space on their paper. The students will rotate to the next card on your cue (for example, say, “SCOOT”). Continue in this manner until students return to their starting point. 

Give each student a mini whiteboard board and a whiteboard marker. Project one task card at a time and have each student solve for the sum on their board. When everyone has written down their answer, say, “Show Me.” Students will flip their boards, allowing you to see who needs extra support. Students can also work together in pairs or teams. 

This resource was created by Allie Kleijnjans, a teacher in Pennsylvania and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

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