Subtraction Strategy: Counting Back

Core Concepts

Learn and practice the 'counting back' strategy. This involves starting with the larger number and counting backward to find the difference. It's especially useful for subtracting small numbers like 1, 2, or 3.

Subtraction Strategy: Counting Back

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How does the 'counting back' strategy for subtraction work?

You start with the bigger number and count backward. The number you say on the last count is the answer.

How would you solve $$8 - 3$$ by counting back?

Start at $8$. Count back $3$ times: $7, 6, 5$. The answer is $5$.

When is 'counting back' a good strategy to use?

It's a good strategy when you are subtracting a small number, like $1$, $2$, or $3$.

Use the counting back strategy to solve: $$5 - 2 = ?$$

Start at $5$. Count back: $4, 3$. The answer is $3$.

Use the counting back strategy to solve: $$9 - 3 = ?$$

Start at $9$. Count back: $8, 7, 6$. The answer is $6$.

$$7 - 2 = ?$$

$$5$$

$$6 - 3 = ?$$

$$3$$

$$9 - 1 = ?$$

$$8$$

$$4 - 2 = ?$$

$$2$$

$$8 - 1 = ?$$

$$7$$

Subtraction Strategy: Counting Back

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Prompt