1/15
00:00

Learn more about this topic →

I.2 Subtraction up to 10 with fish

Loading questions...

Go to the practice →

Understanding Subtraction

Subtraction means taking away part of a group to find how many remain. Young children learn that numbers become smaller when items are removed.

Example:
  • There are 6 fish. Take away 2 → 4 fish are left.
  • There are 5 fish. Take away 3 → 2 fish remain.
Note

Use clear language such as “take away” and “how many are left” to help children understand the action of subtraction.

Using Fish Pictures

Visuals like fish pictures help children see subtraction. They count how many are taken away and how many remain.

Try This:
  • Show 5 fish. Cross out 2 → Count: 3 fish left.
  • Draw 4 fish. Erase 1 → Count: 3 fish remain.
Note

Children can draw or point to fish to better understand how subtraction works through visual change.

Using Real or Toy Fish

Hands-on play with toy fish helps make subtraction fun and real. Children act out subtraction by moving fish away.

Example:
  • Place 6 toy fish. Move 2 away → 4 fish are left.
  • Start with 3 fish. Take 1 away → 2 remain.
Note

Let children move objects themselves. Physical movement reinforces the math idea and keeps learners engaged.

Using Fingers for Subtraction

Fingers help children act out subtraction. They show a number, then lower fingers to show how many are taken away.

Try This:
  • Hold up 4 fingers. Lower 1 → 3 fingers remain.
  • Show 5 fingers. Lower 2 → 3 are still up.
Note

Ask children to count aloud while lowering each finger. This helps with number order and understanding of “taking away.”

Counting Backward

Counting backward helps children subtract by saying the numbers in reverse. It supports number sense and builds fluency.

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

Use fingers or number lines to support backward counting. Have children say each number clearly as they count down.

Story-Based Subtraction

Story problems help children understand subtraction through everyday ideas. These stories make math feel real and relatable.

Example:
  • “7 fish swim in a pond. 3 swim away. How many are left?” → 4
  • “You see 5 fish. 2 hide behind a rock. How many do you see now?” → 3
Note

Invite children to act out stories with toys or drawings. This connects imagination to math understanding.

Understanding Zero

Zero means none are left. It shows the result when all items in a group are taken away.

Example:
  • 4 fish - 4 fish = 0
  • 2 fish - 0 fish = 2
Note

Use language like “nothing left” or “no fish remaining” to help children understand what zero means.

Tips for Practice

Children build confidence with regular subtraction practice. Use simple, fun tools to make learning stick.

Practice Ideas:
  • “There are 5 fish. 2 swim away. How many are left?” → 3
  • “You catch 6 fish. You let 3 go. How many stay?” → 3
Note

Try short games, picture cards, or number stories to help children review subtraction in fun ways.

Tips for Parents and Educators

  • Use fish toys, drawings, or finger play to model subtraction.
  • Start with small numbers, and slowly increase as children gain understanding.
  • Use math language like “how many are gone?” or “what’s left?”
  • Support effort, and encourage children to explain their thinking.
Helpful Tips:
  • Play “Fish Swim Away” using toys moving off a mat.
  • Draw and cross out fish on whiteboards or paper.
  • Connect subtraction to real-life situations like snack time or tidying up.
Note

Everyday moments are perfect chances to build subtraction skills. Keep learning playful and consistent.

Go to the practice →