1/15
00:00

Learn more about this topic →

H.3 Subtraction up to 5 with equations

Loading questions...

Go to the practice →

What Is Subtraction?

Subtraction is taking away a part of a group to find out how many are left. It shows how numbers get smaller when something is removed.

Example:
  • 4 birds on a branch. 2 fly away → 2 birds remain.
  • 3 toy cars. 1 is taken away → 2 cars are left.
Note

Start with small, real-life groups of objects to help children see what subtraction means. Use simple language like “take away” and “how many are left.”

Using Fingers to Subtract

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

Try This:
  • Hold up 5 fingers. Put down 2 → Count what’s up: 3.
  • Show 3 fingers. Lower 1 → Count remaining: 2.
Note

Use both hands if needed. Encourage slow, clear counting as fingers go down to support one-to-one correspondence.

Counting Back to Subtract

Counting back is starting at a number and counting backward to subtract. This helps children learn number order and think about what comes before.

Try This:
  • Start at 5, count back 2 → 4, 3 → 3.
  • Start at 4, count back 1 → 3.
Note

Use a number line or fingers to support counting back. Say each number out loud to keep focus and rhythm.

Using Objects and Pictures

Using physical objects or pictures helps children see subtraction happen. They can touch, move, or cross out to show what’s been taken away.

Example:
  • Place 5 blocks, remove 2 → Count what’s left: 3.
  • Draw 4 balloons, cross out 1 → Remaining: 3.
Note

Use snack pieces, blocks, crayons, or stickers. Let children act out subtraction by moving or erasing items.

Understanding Zero

Zero means none. In subtraction, zero can mean nothing is taken away or that nothing is left. Understanding zero helps compare numbers and solve subtraction problems.

Example:
  • 3 - 0 = 3 → Nothing is taken away.
  • 2 - 2 = 0 → Nothing is left.
Note

Use phrases like “nothing taken away” and “everything is gone” to help children grasp what zero means in subtraction.

Solving Word Problems

Subtraction stories help children connect math to real life. Story problems strengthen listening, vocabulary, and number sense.

Example:
  • “You have 5 crayons. You give away 2. How many do you have now?” → 3
  • “There are 4 ducks. 1 swims away. How many are left?” → 3
Note

Act out word problems with toys or drawings. Use stories from daily life to keep subtraction meaningful and engaging.

Building Fluency with Practice

Fluency means solving problems easily and accurately. Repetition through fun and variety helps children build subtraction skills and confidence.

Practice Ideas:
  • “You have 4 grapes. You eat 1. How many are left?” → 3
  • “There are 5 frogs. 2 jump away.” → 3 frogs remain.
Note

Play games, sing songs, or use puppets and finger play. Make practice short and joyful, and include it in daily routines.

Guidance for Parents and Teachers

  • Use objects children can touch and move to model subtraction.
  • Begin with numbers up to 5, then gradually increase as they grow.
  • Ask open questions like “How many did you take away?”
  • Celebrate effort and improvement, not just correct answers.
Helpful Tips:
  • Use cleanup time as a subtraction moment (“We had 4 books. We put away 2. How many left?”)
  • Draw and cross out pictures together.
  • Tell subtraction stories during playtime or snack time.
Note

Subtraction becomes natural when practiced daily. Use simple materials and positive language to support young learners.

Go to the practice →