J.3 Match words to subtraction sentences - up to 10
What is subtraction?
Subtraction means taking away from a group to find out how many are left. It tells us the difference when one number is taken away from another.
- You have 5 apples. You eat 2 apples. Now you have 3 apples.
- This can be written as: 5 − 2 = 3
Subtraction answers tell how many are left after some are taken away.
Subtraction words to know
Certain words in math stories help you know when to subtract. These words show that something is being taken away.
- minus
- take away
- left
- fewer
- difference
When you see these words, subtraction is often the correct operation to use.
Matching words to subtraction sentences
A subtraction sentence uses numbers and symbols to show a subtraction problem. You can match a math sentence to words that tell the same story.
- Four minus three equals one.
- This matches the subtraction sentence: 4 − 3 = 1
- Six take away two equals four.
- This matches the subtraction sentence: 6 − 2 = 4
The numbers and symbols tell the same math story as the words.
Understanding each part of a subtraction sentence
Every subtraction sentence has three parts: the starting number, the number taken away, and the answer.
- 7 − 5 = 2
- 7 is the starting number
- 5 is the number taken away
- 2 is how many are left
Reading subtraction sentences from left to right helps you understand what is happening.
Subtraction facts up to 10
In first grade, students practice subtraction with numbers up to 10. These facts help build strong math skills.
- 10 − 1 = 9
- 8 − 4 = 4
- 5 − 5 = 0
You can use fingers, drawings, or objects to help solve subtraction problems.
Common Core alignment: CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.OA.A.1 – Use addition and subtraction within 20 to solve word problems.
Notes for teachers
This free lesson is aligned with CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.OA.A.1. Use it for whole-class instruction, independent practice, or homework.
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