Super Simple Subtraction: Taking Away Small Numbers!

Hello Young Math Explorers! Get ready for some super easy and fun mental subtraction. Today, we’re going to practice taking a small single-digit number (like 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5) away from a bigger 3-digit number. The best part? We won’t have to do any tricky “crossing the tens” – it’s all straightforward! Think of a sum like 456 take away 3. We can do this in our heads!

How Does This Easy Subtraction Work? (e.g., 456 − 3)

When we subtract without crossing the tens boundary, it means we only need to change the ‘ones’ digit in the big number. The ‘tens’ and ‘hundreds’ digits usually stay the same!

Let’s look at 456 − 3:

• Look at the big number: 456. It has 4 hundreds, 5 tens, and 6 ones.
• We want to take away 3 (which is 3 ones).
• So, we just take 3 ones away from the 6 ones: 6 − 3 = 3.
• The hundreds (4) and the tens (5) didn’t change at all!
• So, 456 − 3 = 453. Easy peasy!

Your Turn: 18 Easy Subtraction Questions!

Now it’s your chance to shine! Here are 18 subtraction problems for you to solve in your head. Remember, you’re only changing the ones digit. Take your time, think carefully, and then check your answers.

(Your web app with the 18 questions will go here.)

Why is This Simple Subtraction So Useful?

• Builds a Strong Foundation: This is a great first step for becoming a subtraction superstar!
• Boosts Confidence: Getting these right will make you feel super smart and ready for more.
• Quick Mental Maths: You’ll be able to do these sums really fast in your head.
• Helps with Everyday Counting: Like figuring out how many sweets are left if you eat a few!

Tips for Parents & Teachers

This activity focuses on the foundational mental subtraction skill of subtracting a single-digit number from a 3-digit number without regrouping or crossing a tens boundary (e.g., 456 − 3 = 453; 789 − 5 = 784).

• Focus on the Ones: Emphasise that only the ones column is affected in these types of problems.
• Use Concrete Objects (If Needed): For younger learners, initially using objects like counters or base-ten blocks can help visualize the ‘taking away’ from the ones place.
• Relate to Number Lines: Hopping back a few small steps on a number line, without crossing a multiple of ten, can reinforce the concept.
• Celebrate Success: Positive reinforcement is key for building confidence with early maths skills.