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I.3 Subtraction up to 10 with equations

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What Is Subtraction?

Subtraction means taking away part of a group to find out how many are left. It helps children understand how numbers become smaller when something is removed.

Example:
  • 5 apples. Take away 2 apples → 3 apples remain.
  • 7 blocks. Take away 4 blocks → 3 blocks remain.
Note

Use real objects like snacks or blocks to let children physically remove items and count what’s left.

Using Fingers for Subtraction

Children can use their fingers to show a number and then lower fingers to subtract. This method supports visual learning and fine motor skills.

Try This:
  • Hold up 6 fingers. Put down 2 fingers → Count what’s up: 4.
  • Show 8 fingers. Lower 3 → Count what’s up: 5.
Note

Encourage slow counting of fingers as they are lowered to build one-to-one correspondence.

Counting Back Strategy

Counting back is a strategy where children start at a number and count backward to subtract. It supports number order and subtraction fluency.

Try This:
  • Start at 6, count back 2 → 5, 4 → 4.
  • Start at 9, count back 3 → 8, 7, 6 → 6.
Note

Have children say the starting number aloud, then use fingers or tapping to count back step by step.

Using Objects and Pictures

Concrete items like toys or drawings help children see what happens when part of a group is taken away. This builds strong subtraction understanding.

Example:
  • Place 7 crayons, remove 3 → Count what’s left: 4.
  • Draw 6 stars, cross out 2 → Count remaining: 4.
Note

Encourage children to touch or move each object as they subtract to connect motion with meaning.

Subtraction Word Problems

Story problems allow children to apply subtraction to real-life events. They strengthen math, listening, and thinking skills together.

Example:
  • “You have 4 cookies. You eat 2. How many are left?” → 2
  • “There are 6 birds. 3 fly away. How many are still there?” → 3
Note

Let children act out the story using small toys or drawings to make the math come alive.

Zero in Subtraction

Zero means nothing is taken away or nothing remains. Understanding zero is key to early subtraction and comparing numbers.

Example:
  • 5 - 0 = 5 → Nothing is taken away.
  • 2 - 2 = 0 → Nothing is left.
Note

Use language like “nothing is gone” or “all are taken” to explain zero in simple terms.

Fluency Through Practice

Fluency in subtraction means solving problems quickly and accurately. Repeating facts with fun methods helps build memory and confidence.

Practice Ideas:
  • “You have 6 grapes. You eat 1. How many are left?” → 5
  • “There are 8 ducks. 4 swim away.” → 4 ducks remain.
Note

Use rhymes, clapping games, or storytime subtraction to keep repetition active and enjoyable.

Tips for Parents and Teachers

  • Use toys, snacks, or classroom items to model subtraction up to 10.
  • Start with small numbers (0–5), then grow to 10 as skills build.
  • Use subtraction language daily, such as “How many are left?”
  • Offer encouragement and celebrate effort, not just answers.
Helpful Tips:
  • Play “Subtraction Hide and Count” with hidden objects.
  • Use drawing: cross out items to show subtraction.
  • Link subtraction to cleanup routines (“We had 5 toys. We put away 2… How many left?”)
Note

Subtraction happens during everyday routines. Keep it playful, consistent, and connected to real life.

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