Presentation

  1. 1

    Problem 14 − 5: 'We start with fourteen.' Cover the numbers 15–18 with a plain wood strip.

  2. 2

    Place blue strip 5 so it ends at the right edge of 14.

  3. 3

    Read the last uncovered number to the left of the blue strip: 9. Write 14 − 5 = 9.

  4. 4

    Do two more together.

  5. 5

    The child works through subtraction tables, such as all facts starting from 10, and records them.

  6. 6

    Check each answer with the subtraction control chart, or with Addition Chart 1 (9 + 5 = 14).

  7. 7

    Introduce the working charts in the same order as the addition charts, ending with recall from memory.

Extensions, easiest to hardest

  1. Write the related addition fact for each subtraction fact.
  2. Fact families: 5 + 9, 9 + 5, 14 − 5, 14 − 9.
  3. Recall subtraction slips without the board and check with the chart.

Control of error

The subtraction control chart; any answer can also be checked by adding it to the number taken away.

Ready to move on when the child…

  • Records subtraction facts correctly using the board
  • Recalls subtraction facts within 10 without the board
  • Writes the related addition fact for a subtraction fact

Try “pink tower”, “tummy”, “diaper”, “grace and courtesy”, or “October”.