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M.1 Addition and subtraction sentences up to 10

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Understanding Addition and Subtraction up to 10

We use addition and subtraction to show how numbers work together. Addition puts groups together to make a total. Subtraction takes away from a group to find what is left.

Examples:
  • 4 + 3 = 7 means four and three together make seven.
  • 9 − 5 = 4 means if we take five away from nine, four are left.
  • 2 + 0 = 2 shows that adding zero keeps the number the same.
Helpful Hint

Think of addition as “putting together” and subtraction as “taking away.”

Completing Addition and Subtraction Sentences

Sometimes, a number sentence has a missing part. We can figure out the missing number to make the sentence true.

Examples:
  • 6 + ? = 10. Since 6 needs 4 more to make 10, the missing number is 4.
  • ? − 3 = 5. Think: “What number minus 3 equals 5?” The answer is 8.
  • 7 − ? = 2. The missing number is 5.
Helpful Hint

Use what you know about number pairs and subtraction facts to fill in the missing part.

Using Objects to Show Addition and Subtraction

Objects, drawings, or counters help us see how numbers are added together or taken away.

Examples:
  • Put 5 red cubes and 2 blue cubes together. Count them all: 5 + 2 = 7.
  • Start with 8 toy cars. Take away 3. Now there are 8 − 3 = 5 cars left.
Helpful Hint

Use buttons, coins, or blocks to model both adding and taking away.

Using a Number Line

A number line helps us solve problems by moving forward for addition and backward for subtraction.

Examples:
  • Start at 3. Move forward 6 steps. You land on 9. So, 3 + 6 = 9.
  • Start at 9. Move back 4 steps. You land on 5. So, 9 − 4 = 5.
Helpful Hint

Move to the right when adding. Move to the left when subtracting.

Math in Everyday Life

Addition and subtraction are part of daily life when we count, share, or find out how many are left.

Real-Life Examples:
  • You have 3 apples and your friend gives you 2 more. Now you have 3 + 2 = 5 apples.
  • There are 7 birds on a fence. 4 fly away. Now there are 7 − 4 = 3 birds.
  • You eat 5 crackers at lunch and 3 at snack. That’s 5 + 3 = 8 crackers in all.
Try This

Look around at home or school. Practice adding when you put groups together and subtracting when some are taken away.

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