Functional Skills Maths: Subtraction (Level 1)

Take away and count how many are left

What is Subtraction?

  • Subtraction means taking a number away.
  • We use the − sign.
  • Example: 10 − 3 = 7.
  • You are finding how many are left.

Counting Back

  • Start at the bigger number.
  • Count back by the number you are taking away.
  • Example: 8 − 3. Start at 8. Count back 3: 7, 6, 5.
  • The answer is 5.

How Many Are Left?

  • Imagine objects on a table.
  • Cross out the ones you are taking away.
  • Count the ones that are left.
  • Example: 7 − 2 = 5.

Worked Examples

Example 1: 8 − 3

  1. Start at 8.
  2. Count back 3: 7, 6, 5.
  3. Answer: 8 − 3 = 5

Example 2: 10 − 4

  1. Start at 10.
  2. Count back 4: 9, 8, 7, 6.
  3. Answer: 10 − 4 = 6

Practice Questions

  • 9 − 2 = ?
    Hint: Start at 9. Count back 2: 8, 7.
    Answer: 7
  • 7 − 3 = ?
    Hint: Start at 7. Count back 3: 6, 5, 4.
    Answer: 4
  • 10 − 5 = ?
    Hint: 10 shared equally — half of 10 is 5.
    Answer: 5
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