Subtraction is simply the process of taking one quantity and removing part of it to work out what is left. It is the opposite of addition because we are reducing the value of the number rather than increasing it by adding more numbers.

To introduce subtraction to kids, start with taking away objects from a group. Use tangible items like toys or counters to show how removing items decreases the total number. Explain that subtraction means finding out how many are left after some are taken away. Incorporate simple, relatable examples, such as having five apples and giving away two. Visual aids and interactive activities make learning subtraction engaging and easier to learn.

In this article, we will study what subtraction is, when your child should learn subtraction, the properties of subtraction and a method for learning subtraction etc.

What is Subtraction?

Subtraction is simply the process of taking one quantity and removing part of it to work out what is left. It is the opposite of addition because we are reducing the value of the number rather than increasing it by adding more numbers.

You can subtract more than one number away from each other, but this usually involves the use of parenthesis and an understanding of number facts like number order.

It’s a great idea to introduce subtraction with some examples. There are lots of different ways we can think about teaching subtraction. Talking about a few different methods is a good way to build confidence when children learn about subtraction.

When Should Your Child Learn Subtraction?

They are taught to solve advanced subtraction problems gradually. Subtraction helps children understand how to associate numbers with objects and calculate and express losses using math language.

Symbol Of Subtraction

We use different symbols to represent different operations in math. For subtraction, we use the minus sign or “-” between the two numbers to represent that we are going to perform subtraction.

For example, in the expression “6 – 1 = 5”, the symbol “-” connects the two numbers and tells us that we have to perform the subtraction between the two numbers.

What Is Formula Of Subtraction?

Subtraction is achieved using the formula:

• Minuend is the number from which the other number is subtracted.
• Subtrahend is the number which is to be subtracted from the minuend.
• Difference is the final result after subtracting the subtrahend from the minuend.

Therefore, the subtraction formula: Minuend – Subtrahend = Difference

For Example: 8 – 5 = 3

Properties of Subtraction

We must teach all the properties of subtraction to kids, various properties of subtraction are added below:

• Subtraction is the reverse of addition.
• When we subtract a number from itself, it gives the answer 0.
• For any two whole numbers, a and b, if a > b, then a – b is a whole number and if a < b, then a – b is never a whole number.
• Subtraction of whole numbers of not communicative. Therefore, any two whole numbers, a and b, a – b ≠ b – a.
• Subtraction of whole numbers if not associative. Therefore, for any three whole numbers, say a, b, and c, (a – b) – c ≠ a – (b – c).

Subtraction For Preschoolers With Examples

We will learn the subtraction of two-digit numbers, three-digit numbers, and four-digit numbers, with and without regrouping, with the help of examples.

Subtraction Of Two Digit Numbers

Subtract 40 from 78.

• Line up the numbers according to place value. Place the bigger number on top.
• In the ones column, we have 8 and O.
• In the tens column, we have 7 and 4.
• Solve the digit at the ones place. (8 – 0 = 8)
• Next, solve the digits at the tens place. (7 – 4 = 3)
• So, the difference between the two given numbers is: 78 – 40 = 38

Subtraction Of Three Digit Numbers

Subtract 140 from 250.

• Line up the numbers according to place value. Place the bigger number on top.
• In the ones column, we have 0 and O.
• In the tens column, we have 5 and 4.
• In the hundreds column, we have 2 and 1.
• Solve the digit at the ones place. (0 – 0 = 0)
• Next, solve the digits at the tens place. (5 – 4 = 1)
• Finally, solve the digits at the hundreds place (2 – 1 = 1)
• So, the difference between the given numbers is: 250 – 140 = 110

Method for Learning Subtraction

Here are some effective methods to help kids understand and enjoy learning subtraction:

• Number Lines:

Draw a number line and show how to “jump back” to subtract.

Example: To subtract 3 from 7, start at 7 and make 3 jumps back to land on 4.

• Using Fingers:

One can easily learn the subtraction operation using fingure. For example, to subtract 3 from 5 follow the image added below:

• Subtraction Stories:

Create simple stories or scenarios where subtraction is used.

Example: “You have 6 apples, and you give 2 to a friend. How many apples do you have left?”

• Visual Aids:

Use pictures or diagrams to represent subtraction problems.

Example: Draw 8 stars and cross out 3 to see how many are left.

• Games and Activities:

Incorporate subtraction into games, like board games or card games.

Example: Play a game where kids roll dice and subtract the number rolled from their total.

• Worksheets and Practice:

Provide worksheets with subtraction problems to practice.

Include a variety of problems to ensure they understand the concept.

• Relate to Addition:

Show the relationship between addition and subtraction.

Example: If 4 + 3 = 7, then 7 – 3 = 4.

Problems Based Questions

Q1. Simple Subtraction with Objects

“You have 5 apples, and you give 2 to your friend. How many apples do you have left?”

Q2. Subtraction in Daily Activities

“You had 10 candies, and you ate 3. How many candies are left?”

Q3. Shopping Scenario

“You go to the store with $15. You buy a book for $6 and a pencil for $2. How much money do you have left?”

Q4. Animal Counting

“There are 15 fish in the tank. If you move 6 fish to another tank, how many fish are in the first tank now?”

Answer Key: