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Representing Addition and Subtraction

Represent addition and subtraction using objects, drawings, and mental images

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What a learner can do afterwards

  • Use cubes or counters to show 3 + 2
  • Draw a picture to represent a subtraction situation
  • Use fingers to model an addition problem

The lesson

You already know how to add and take away. Now you will show it! Use blocks, drawings, or fingers to show a number problem.

Tap each block and count out loud.
3 blocks and 2 more blocks make 5 blocks.
Try it together

Mia draws 5 apples. She crosses out 2 she ate. Now 3 apples are left.

Good to know

You can use fingers too. Put up 3 fingers, then 2 more. Count all your fingers to find the total.

Show your addition and subtraction with objects, drawings, or fingers.

Watch it

Where it sits

Where this leads

Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.

Then practise

8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.

Representing Addition and Subtraction · Mathematics, ages 4 to 6 · LightMySky