Basic Subtraction

Grade 1 Easy Operations & Algebraic Thinking

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the concept of subtraction
  • Develop basic mental math strategies for subtraction

Concept Explanation

Subtraction is the process of taking away or removing one number from another. For example, if you have 5 cookies and you eat 2 of them, you have 3 cookies left. It’s helpful to think of subtraction as moving backward on a number line.

Being proficient in subtraction is crucial for handling change in a store, figuring out how many items remain after some are taken, or budgeting your weekly allowance.

Worked Examples

Example 1

Problem: 5 - 2
Solution: 3
Explanation: Removing 2 from 5 leaves 3.

Example 2

Problem: 7 - 4
Solution: 3
Explanation: If you have 7 and take away 4, you’re left with 3.

Example 3

Problem: 10 - 6
Solution: 4
Explanation: Subtracting 6 from 10 gives you 4.

Common Errors

ErrorCorrectionReason
Confusing subtraction with additionVerify you are using “−”Students might accidentally add when they see a minus sign.
Incorrect counting backCount carefully backwardRushing may lead to skipping or losing track of numbers.
Subtracting smaller from larger incorrectlyPay attention to order8 - 3 is not the same as 3 - 8; the minuend (first number) matters.

Practice Problems

  1. Problem: 3 - 1
    Solution: 2
  2. Problem: 9 - 4
    Solution: 5
  3. Problem: 8 - 3
    Solution: 5
  4. Problem: 6 - 5
    Solution: 1
  5. Problem: 10 - 7
    Solution: 3

Real-World Application Example

If you have 10 coins and you pay 4 of them for a small toy, you subtract 4 from 10. That leaves you with 6 coins. Subtraction is part of everyday transactions and budgeting.

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