K-5 friendly lesson
One small step at a time.Read the idea, try the activity, and celebrate each win as you go.

Subtract a 1-Digit Number from a 2-Digit Number

πŸͺ„ Let's pull apart the teen numbers! If you learn how to separate the "ten" from the "ones", subtracting becomes a magic trick.

Do this: Read the concept below, then try the quiz or activity.

Lesson 18 of 186

Concept

When you see a problem like 15 - 8, don't panic! You can use the "Step on 10" trick.

🎯 The "Step on 10" Strategy: We want to take away the number 8 in two easy steps instead of one giant leap. 1. Step down to 10: 15 has a 5 in the ones place. Subtract 5 to get to the number 10! (15 - 5 = 10). 2. Subtract the rest: We need to subtract 8 total. We already subtracted 5. How many more do we need to take away? (8 - 5 = 3). We need to subtract 3 more. 3. Make the final step: 10 - 3 = 7. So, 15 - 8 = 7!

You used the number 10 as a resting spot in the middle of your math problem!

Try it

Step down to 10!

Instructions: Break the subtraction into two steps to easily find the answer.

Problem 1: 14 - 6 = ? * Step 1: Take away 4 to get to 10. * Step 2: Take away 2 more from the 10! (10 - 2) * Answer: ___

Problem 2: 12 - 5 = ? * Take away 2 to get to 10. * Take away ___ more from the 10. * Answer: ___

Problem 3: 16 - 9 = ? * (Magic 9 trick! You can just add the digits 1+6!) * Answer: ___

Problem 4: 13 - 7 = ? * Answer: ___