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Subtraction Symbol Practice

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Subtraction Symbol Practice

Read each question carefully. Use the minus sign to show subtraction. Write your answers in the spaces provided.

Recognising the subtraction symbol

1.Which sign means subtract?
  • +
  • −
  • =
2.What does the minus sign tell you to do?
  • Put groups together
  • Take an amount away
  • Count on to a larger number
3.In 14 ___ 6 = 8, write the sign that shows subtraction.
4.Complete the rule: The symbol − means .

Using subtraction in number sentences

5.Write the correct subtraction sign in each number sentence. a) 13 ___ 5 = 8 b) 16 ___ 9 = 7 c) 11 ___ 4 = 7
6.There are 9 pears in a basket. Mei takes out 4 pears. How many pears remain? Write a number sentence and the answer.
7.Match each number sentence to the description that fits it.
  • 15 − 6 = 9
  • 12 − 7 = 5
  • 18 − 9 = 9
  • Begin with 15 and take away 6
  • Begin with 18 and take away 9
  • Begin with 12 and take away 7
8.Fill in the missing subtraction sign and calculate: 17 8 =
9.On the number line, start at 14 and jump backwards 5 spaces. Which number do you land on?
02468101214161820
10.Explain in your own words what the minus sign means in 20 − 7 = 13.
11.Kahu has 24 shells and gives 9 to a friend. Write the subtraction number sentence and work out how many shells Kahu has left.

2 printable pages

  • Subtraction Symbol Practice, page 1 of 2: Recognising the subtraction symbol, Using subtraction in number sentences

    Page 1

  • Subtraction Symbol Practice, page 2 of 2: 7. Match each number sentence to the description that fits it.

    Page 2

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