Identify knowns and unknowns in subtraction equations
I can identify knowns and unknowns in subtraction equations.
Identify knowns and unknowns in subtraction equations
I can identify knowns and unknowns in subtraction equations.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Equations can be represented using part-part-whole or bar models.
- If the minuend is missing, you add the subtrahend and difference.
- To find a missing part in a subtraction equation, subtract the other part from the whole.
Keywords
Minuend - The minuend is the number being subtracted from.
Subtrahend - A subtrahend is a number subtracted from another.
Difference - The difference is the result after subtracting one number from another.
Common misconception
Pupils may rely on the same strategies to solve all problems and may find it hard to remember when to add to find the missing part and when to subtract.
Emphasise the use of bar models, especially for pupils who are struggling. This will help them identify whether a part is missing or if the whole is missing, and whether they should add the parts or subtract a part from the whole to get the answer.
To help you plan your year 3 maths lesson on: Identify knowns and unknowns in subtraction equations, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 3 maths lesson on: Identify knowns and unknowns in subtraction equations, 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 2 maths lessons from the Understand additive relationships and apply them to rearrange equations unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Licence
Lesson video
Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
36 − 10
66 − 20
84 − 20
44 − 10