Explain and represent constant difference for subtraction
I can explain and represent constant difference for subtraction.
Explain and represent constant difference for subtraction
I can explain and represent constant difference for subtraction.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- If the minuend and subtrahend are both increased by the same amount, the difference stays the same.
- If the minuend and subtrahend are both decreased by the same amount, the difference stays the same.
- A number line can be used to represent the 'same difference' generalisation.
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.
Constant - A constant is a quantity that has a fixed value that does not change or vary, such as a number.
Common misconception
The concept of constant difference is difficult to understand when looking simply at abstract equations and numerals and pupils may find it challenging to 'see' the underlying structure of the maths.
Make good use of physical resources to reinforce the idea of constant difference. Number rods coupled with rulers or number lines can be very useful here. Take time with smaller values so pupils can generalise.
To help you plan your year 6 maths lesson on: Explain and represent constant difference for subtraction, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 6 maths lesson on: Explain and represent constant difference for subtraction, 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.
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 Use equivalence and compensation to simplify and solve subtraction problems 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
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