Purpose:
Subtraction is taught using three strategies- adding up, subtracting backwards, and decomposing- initially. When subtraction is taught using these strategies first, students develop a better understanding of number sense and place value. Students need to understand why they are regrouping and what that means when they are using the operation of subtraction using standard algorithm. Standard algorithm is introduced in 3rd grade once their understanding of place value has been strengthened. These strategies are taught in a progression to build up to understanding and using the standard algorithm fluently.
The learner will:
Are you aware of your number sense? Do you know what number sense is and all that it entails? Number sense plays a big role in mathematics and we as adults do not even realize that we have it and how much we use it in our daily life.
Think about how you learned subtraction when you were in school. Did you hear the terms standard algorithm or borrowing? Now think about what you have seen your child bring home and how they are being taught subtraction. Does it make sense to you? Do you understand why they are learning a specific strategy?
This course is meant to be worked through in order of topics in the navigation bar from left to right. If you need to come back to the home page for any reason, click on the "Subtraction Strategies" heading and it will bring you back to this page. To start the course, click on Begin below.