Class Note 3: Subtraction Basics
• Objective: Introduction to the concept of subtraction and understanding how to take
away one number from another to find the difference.
• Introduction:
o Start the lesson by explaining that subtraction is about taking away or removing
objects from a group.
o Use simple language and relatable examples, such as removing apples from a
basket.
• Activity 1: Using Fingers for Subtraction
o Demonstrate how to use fingers to subtract numbers.
o For example, show 5 fingers, then fold down 2 fingers and count the remaining
fingers to find the difference (5 - 2 = 3).
o Encourage students to practice with their own fingers, using different
combinations.
• Activity 2: Subtraction with Objects
o Provide students with small objects like blocks, beads, or counters.
o Present simple subtraction problems (e.g., 5 - 2) and have students use the
objects to find the difference.
o Repeat this with several examples to reinforce the concept.
• Activity 3: Subtraction Worksheets
o Hand out worksheets with simple subtraction problems and pictures of objects
to count.
o For each problem, students count the objects, remove the specified number,
and write the remaining total.
o Walk around the classroom to offer assistance and ensure students are
correctly solving the problems.
• Reinforcement:
o Play a subtraction game where students form pairs and take turns rolling dice,
subtracting the smaller number from the larger number, and finding the
difference.
o Sing a subtraction song that involves counting and removing objects, such as
"Ten Green Bottles" or "Five Little Ducks."
• Homework:
o Assign a simple subtraction worksheet for practice at home.
o Encourage students to find everyday opportunities to practice subtraction,
such as subtracting the number of candies they eat from a total.
• Key Points:
o Subtraction is about taking away or removing objects from a group.
o Use symbols (-) for subtraction and equals (=) to show the result.
o Practice with real objects and visual aids to understand subtraction.
• Assessment:
o Conduct a quick quiz where students solve a few subtraction problems on the
board.
o Have students demonstrate subtraction using objects or their fingers in small
groups.
