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Subtraction is the taking of one number or amount away from another.

It is the opposite of addition.

 

Example

Look at this subtraction.

10 - 7 = ?

 

Answer

Start at 10 and count 7 backwards.

You can use the number line to help you count.

 

number line to 20

 

10 - 7 = 3

 

If you use the number line, you start at the number 10 and move places to the left. The number you reach is 3.

 

Remember that you always move to the left on a number line when you are subtracting.

 

left arrow

 

Let's try another one.

 

Example

16 - 8 = ?

 

Answer

Start at 16 on the number line and count 8 places to the left. What number do you reach? It's 8.

 

16 - 8 = 8

 

Does that make sense?

 

boy with football

 

Let's have a go at some questions now.

10 questions