What is a Subtraction Sentence?
A subtraction sentence shows us how to take away one number from another.
It has three parts: the starting number (minuend), the number we're taking away (subtrahend), and the difference (answer). We write it like this: minuend - subtrahend = difference.
How to Write a Subtraction Sentence
1️⃣ Find the minuend - the number we start with
2️⃣ Find the subtrahend - the number we're taking away
3️⃣ Calculate the difference - what's left after subtraction
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Cookie Subtraction
Emma baked 245 cookies for the school fair. She sold 128 cookies. Let's write the subtraction sentence!
Great job! The complete subtraction sentence is: 245 - 128 = 117
Example 2: Book Collection
Liam had 532 books in his collection. He donated 276 books to the library. What's the subtraction sentence?
Awesome! The subtraction sentence is: 532 - 276 = 256
Parent Tips 🌟
- Use real-life examples: Practice subtraction with items around the house like toys, fruits, or books to make it more engaging.
- Play subtraction games: Try "how many are left?" games during snack time or with building blocks.
- Encourage estimation first: Before calculating exact answers, ask your child to estimate whether the answer will be bigger or smaller than certain numbers.