Grade 1 → Basic Addition and Subtraction ↓
Subtraction Facts within 20
Subtraction is one of the basic arithmetic operations that refers to taking away or removing. When we learn subtraction facts within 20, we are focusing on understanding how to subtract numbers that are less than or equal to 20. This is important for building a strong foundation in math.
Subtraction can be seen as the opposite of addition. While addition adds numbers together to make a larger number, subtraction subtracts something from the numbers to make a smaller number.
Basic concepts of subtraction
Subtraction helps to find out how much is left or how much is missing. It is represented by the minus sign -
.
For example:
5 - 3 = 2
Here, 5 is the starting number, 3 is the number to be subtracted, and 2 is the result or difference.
Understanding subtraction
Let's use a simple visual example to understand subtraction better.
In this example, we start with 10 blocks. We remove 4 blocks, and we are left with 6 blocks. This is represented as 10 - 4 = 6
.
Subtraction facts within 20
Subtraction facts within 20 are simply subtraction problems you can do with the numbers 1 to 20. Becoming familiar with these helps students solve problems quickly and understand the relationship between numbers.
Examples of subtraction facts within 20
16 - 5 = 11
14 - 3 = 11
20 - 4 = 16
19 - 10 = 9
18 - 18 = 0
Mastering these facts takes practice. Students should regularly engage in exercises that involve solving subtraction problems, recognizing patterns, and playing subtraction games.
Visualization of subtraction
Visualization can be a very powerful tool in understanding subtraction. When you can see the numbers, it helps to better understand the subtraction mechanics.
In this example, there are initially 5 green circles, and then we remove 3 of them (represented by the red circles). We are left with 2 green circles, so 5 - 3 = 2
.
Strategies for learning subtraction facts
Here are some effective strategies to help students master subtraction facts within 20:
1. Counting backwards
This strategy involves counting backwards to find the answer to a subtraction problem. For example, to solve 7 - 2
, you could count the two numbers backwards from 7 (6, 5). So, 7 - 2 = 5
.
2. Number lines
The number line is a great tool for demonstrating subtraction. Students can physically step back on the line according to the number they want to subtract.
If we're solving 8 - 3
, start with 8 and go back 3 steps to get to 5. So, 8 - 3 = 5
.
3. Using touch points
Tangent points are imaginary points on numbers that help students visualize subtraction. For example, the number 4 would have 4 tangent points, and as the numbers are subtracted, the tangent points appear to disappear.
4. Remembering the basic facts
By focusing on memorizing basic subtraction facts, students can become quicker at solving subtraction problems within 20. Games, flashcards, and songs can be effective in helping them memorize these facts.
5. Related to yoga
Because subtraction is the opposite of addition, students can use their knowledge of addition facts to solve subtraction problems. If a child knows that 5 + 3 = 8
, they can manipulate the equation to understand 8 - 3 = 5
.
Practicing subtraction facts within 20
Regular practice is the key to mastering any mathematical concept. Here are some practical examples and questions to practice subtraction facts within 20:
Example questions:
- What is
12 - 7
? - Solve
15 - 9
. - If we subtract 4 from 18 then how much will be left?
- We had 14 apples and we ate 6. How many are left now?
- Subtract 10 from 20.
More exercises:
For extra practice, create a list of random subtraction problems for students to solve each day. Include a variety of examples such as:
9 - 3
= 617 - 8
= 95 - 5
= 012 - 11
= 113 - 4
= 9
Encourage students to check their answers by adding the subtracted number to the result to see if it matches the original number.
Conclusion
Understanding and mastering subtraction facts within 20 is a crucial skill in early math education. It lays the groundwork for more advanced mathematical concepts. Through practice, visualization, and various strategies, students can master subtraction and gain confidence in their mathematical abilities.
As students become more comfortable with these facts, they will become more efficient problem-solvers in their daily tasks and will be prepared for more challenging math concepts in the future.