Addition and subtraction involving zero
I can add and subtract zero and know when the difference is zero.
Addition and subtraction involving zero
I can add and subtract zero and know when the difference is zero.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- When zero is added to a number the number, the number does not change.
- When zero is subtracted from a number, the number does not change.
- Subtracting a number from itself gives a difference of zero.
Keywords
Zero - Zero is the number that represents no amount or objects. When we add zero to a number, the result is just the number, unchanged.
Add - To find the total, or sum, by combining two or more parts (addends), or to increase an amount by adding another.
Subtract - To partition one part from another (the subtrahend from the difference), or to decrease an amount by taking an amount away.
Same - The equal sign is used to show that the values on either side of it are the same.
Common misconception
Children may think that adding or subtracting zero gives zero. For example, 6 + 0 = 0 or 4 - 0 = 0
Use manipulatives to help children see that adding or subtracting zero will not change the starting amount. Model this alongside the written equation so that they can see what each part is representing.
To help you plan your year 1 maths lesson on: Addition and subtraction involving zero, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 1 maths lesson on: Addition and subtraction involving zero, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 1 maths lessons from the Addition and subtraction facts within 10 unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Starter quiz
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Exit quiz
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