Use column subtraction to subtract from a 2- or 3-digit number
I can use column subtraction to subtract from a 2- or 3-digit number.
Use column subtraction to subtract from a 2- or 3-digit number
I can use column subtraction to subtract from a 2- or 3-digit number.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Start by subtracting the number with the smallest place value first.
- The minuend always appears first in a column subtraction.
- The subtrahend is written underneath the minuend.
Keywords
Minuend - The minuend is the number being subtracted from.
Subtrahend - A subtrahend is a number subtracted from another.
Column subtraction - Column subtraction is a way of subtracting numbers by writing a number below another.
Common misconception
Pupils may make errors when subtracting zero or when writing zero in the ones, tens or hundreds column of the difference.
Encourage pupils to write zero, using the examples given in the slide deck. Write zero in the hundreds column of the difference when using column subtraction; explain this is not written when the calculation is presented as a horizontal equation.
To help you plan your year 3 maths lesson on: Use column subtraction to subtract from a 2- or 3-digit number, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 3 maths lesson on: Use column subtraction to subtract from a 2- or 3-digit number, 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.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 2 maths lessons from the Column subtraction unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
