How to teach addition and subtraction
Start with small numbers and real objects. Counting blocks, coins or snacks shows that adding combines groups and subtracting takes some away. Move to numbers up to 10, then 20, before trying 100.
Teach the helpful tricks: counting on from the bigger number, making ten (7 + 5 is 7 + 3 + 2), and using addition to check subtraction. Number bonds to 10 are worth practising until they are automatic.
Short daily sessions beat long ones. Use a fresh worksheet, mark it together with the answer key, and talk about mistakes: a wrong answer shows exactly which idea to practise next.
Make an addition and subtraction worksheet →