Maths Topics
Dictionary
Difference The number found when subtracting one number from another; the result of a subtraction operation; the amount by which a quantity is more or less than another number.
Negative Number A number that is less than zero. Negative numbers have the minue sign in front to show how many less than zero they are.
Number Line A line that shows numbers ordered by magnitude from left to right or bottom to top; equal intervals are marked and labelled.
Subtraction An operation that is removal of sets from an initial set, or finds the difference when comparing two quantities. When subtracting we use the minus sign '-'. Subtraction is also written as 'take away' or 'minus'.
Subtraction games & exercises
Subtraction is closely linked to addition - adding a negative number is the same as subtracting, subtracting a negative number is the same as adding. Subtraction and addition operations are the inverse of one-another.
More complex written subtraction requires exchanging numbers. You need to exchange when the digit you are taking away is larger than the digit you are subtracting it from.
Boost your confidence in subtraction with our games and exercises below. Click an image to load the lesson in a new window, or subscribe to Maths-Whizz to get loads more subtraction lessons in our personalised online tutor.
Foundation Subtraction
Find one less than a number from 1 to 9
This isn't your usual take-away duck. They get on the bus, and one gets off. How many left? Only YOU can help...
Separate a number into objects of 2 groups
You learn everything with Maths-Whizz, even flower arranging! Sort these flowers into the vases - you need a different variation each time. Use subtraction to help you!
Year 1 Subtraction
Use of a symbol to stand for an unknown number
There's a missing number in these addition questions. Addition is the inverse of subtraction, so see if you can work out how to get that missing number.
Know by heart subtraction facts
The sun is up and the worms are out to play, but some are a little shy. If four pop up and one hides again, do we have enough for a volleyball game?
Year 2 Subtraction
Finding a small difference
Subtraction is finding the difference. With the help of two seals, a pair of perky penguins and a trampoline you can use counting up to find the difference between two numbers.
Subtraction facts for numbers up to 10
Be the envy of all the DJ mathematicians with this rapid-fire game. Find the subtraction answers to score notes, but make sure you answer before the record breaks!
Year 3 Subtraction
Find a small difference by counting up
Jump from the smaller number to the larger number to find the difference. The cricket needs those juicy leaves, but watch out - he's a bit of a burper!
Hundreds, Tens, Units - Tens, Units
Learn how to count down the number line with this pencil and paper subtraction exercise. Show the teacher who's top of the class with your blackboard skills!
Year 4 Subtraction
Subtract nearest multiple of 10 and adjust
Monkeys and hammers aren't usually the best combination, but here you can help the monkey take away larger numbers with a bit of subtraction and addition.
Speed game with subtraction facts
Find the hidden gold, answer the subtraction questions and escape the shipwreck before your air runs out. It's a game of beady eyes and quick-fire brains. Go treasure hunting!
Year 5 Subtraction
Use number facts and place value to subtract
It's all the fun of the fair with Maths-Whizz. Find the difference between pairs of numbers on the Ferris Wheels.
Subtract numbers to 10 000, exchanging once
Learn how to exchange digits when subtracting tricky numbers on paper. The pencil will help you out if you get stuck!
Year 6 Subtraction
Finding what to add to a decimal number
The Whizz Prof needs accurate measurements for his explosive experiments! Help him work out how much more meteor dust he needs before he can flip the switch.
Derive quickly pairs of decimal numbers
Only the right socket will provide the power to ignite the fuse and launch the firework. Find the missing number and click socket in super-quick time to get the display started.