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Maths lesson · Addition and subtraction

How to take away small numbers by counting back

Start at the first number and count back, one jump at a time.

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Step 6 of 64 jumps back from 15 land on 11, so 15 − 4 = 11. 4 jumps from 15, landing on 11.01234567891011121314151617181920
4 jumps back from 15 land on 11, so 15 − 4 = 11.

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How to work it out

15 − 4

6 steps

  1. Step 115 − 4: start at 15 on the number line, and count back 4.
  2. Step 21 jump back: 14.
  3. Step 32 jumps back: 13.
  4. Step 43 jumps back: 12.
  5. Step 54 jumps back: 11.
  6. Step 64 jumps back from 15 land on 11, so 15 − 4 = 11.

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About this lesson

Counting back is how young children first subtract. Your child starts at the bigger number on a number line and makes one jump back for each one taken away, counting the jumps as they go. Where the last jump lands is the answer.

What your child learns

  • Count back to subtract within 20.

Australia · Year 1: Australian Curriculum v9 · AC9M1N04

Practise taking away small numbers

Printable practice for this lesson is on its way, in packs and for members.

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  • Taking away small numbers practice packEvery level, new numbers any time, with answer keys.Coming soon