Progression Towards a Written Method for Subtraction In developing a written method for subtraction, it is important that children understand the concept of subtraction, in that it is: Removal of an amount from a larger group (take away) Comparison of two amounts (difference) They also need to understand and work with certain principles, i.e. that it is: the inverse of addition not commutative i.e. 5 - 3 is not the same as 3 - 5 not associative i.e. 10 - 3 - 2 is not the same as 10 - (3 - 2) YR Early Learning Goal: Using quantities and objects, children subtract two single-digit numbers and count on or back to find the answer. Children are encouraged to develop a mental picture of the number system in their heads to use for calculation. They should experience practical calculation opportunities using a wide variety of practical equipment, including small world play, role play, counters, cubes etc. Taking away Children will begin to develop their ability to subtract by using practical equipment to count out the first number and then remove or take away the second number to find the solution by counting how many are left e.g. 9 – 4.
For illustration purposes, the amount being taken away are show crossed out. Children would be encouraged to physically remove these using touch counting.
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By touch counting and dragging in this way, it allows children to keep track of how many they are removing so they don’t have to keep recounting. They will then touch count the amount that are left to find the answer. Those who are ready may record their own calculations.