We use adding when we increase or finish with more objects than we started with.

 

 

Example

Fatima has 3 teddies and her parents give her 2 more.

How many does she have now?

 

Answer

We work out 3 + 2 because she now has 3 teddies and 2 more.

3 + 2 = 5

She has 5 teddies now.

 

Key words to look for in an adding question are: find the total  and altogether.

 

 

 

We use taking away or subtraction when we decrease or finish with fewer objects.

 

Example

Fatima has 6 teddies and she gives 2 to her brother.

How many does she have now?

 

Answer

We work out 6 - 2 because she now has 2 teddies fewer than the 6 she started with.

6 - 2 = 4

She has 4 teddies now.

 

Key words to look for in a subtraction question are: find the difference and take away.

 

Are you ready to have a go at some questions now?