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DD.1 Subtract up to three-digit numbers without regrouping

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What is subtraction using break apart?

Subtraction with break apart is a method where we take a number apart into its hundreds, tens, and ones, and subtract each part step by step. This helps make subtraction easier, especially with larger numbers.

Example:
  • 456 – 123
  • Break apart 123 → 100 + 20 + 3
  • 456 – 100 = 356
  • 356 – 20 = 336
  • 336 – 3 = 333
Note

Always break apart the smaller number. Subtract one place value at a time to stay organized.

How does the break apart method work?

We use place value to split the smaller number into hundreds, tens, and ones. Then we subtract each piece from the larger number in order.

Steps:
  • Start with 732 – 248
  • Break apart 248 → 200 + 40 + 8
  • 732 – 200 = 532
  • 532 – 40 = 492
  • 492 – 8 = 484
Note

Write each step clearly to avoid mistakes. Subtract from left to right: hundreds first, tens next, ones last.

Why use the break apart method?

This method helps students see how subtraction works with place value. It makes large problems easier to solve without confusion.

Example:
  • 641 – 215
  • Break apart 215 → 200 + 10 + 5
  • 641 – 200 = 441
  • 441 – 10 = 431
  • 431 – 5 = 426
Note

Breaking apart numbers connects subtraction to place value understanding and makes mental math easier.

Practice with subtraction using break apart

Try solving subtraction problems by breaking apart the smaller number. Always check your final answer to be sure it makes sense.

Examples:
  • 528 – 314 → break apart 314 → 300 + 10 + 4 → answer: 214
  • 870 – 452 → break apart 452 → 400 + 50 + 2 → answer: 418
  • 605 – 273 → break apart 273 → 200 + 70 + 3 → answer: 332
Note

After you finish subtracting, add the smaller number and the answer together to check your work. If the sum matches the big number, you are correct!