As a tutor for my niece, I understand that subtraction is a crucial mathematical concept introduced to children at an early age. However, the subtraction of 1 to 2-digit numbers can often pose a challenge for many young learners. To support them in mastering this skill, both teachers and I, as a tutor, employ a range of strategies and approaches designed to simplify the process and create an enjoyable learning experience for our students.
Easy way for 1-2 digit numbers Subtraction
A. Number Line Strategy
The first trick is the number line strategy. In order to demonstrate the initial number and the amount being deducted, the teacher will create a horizontal line on the board and write numbers along it. The student then moves backward down the line until they reach the solution. For instance, the teacher would draw a line with 17 on the right side and 13 on the left if a pupil was subtracting 14 from 17. The student would then move the line from 17 to 14 in order to find the answer, which is 3.

B. Borrowing / Regrouping Strategy
The regrouping approach, commonly known as borrowing, is another strategy that may be applied. This approach includes adding one from the tens place to the ones place. For instance, if a learner is subtracting 18 from 76, they would begin with the rightmost digits 6 (From 76) – 8 (from 18). Here, 6 is smaller than 8, so we need to borrow from the tens place in 76. Borrow 1 from the tens place (7) to make it 6 and add 10 to the ones place (10+6=16). Now the equation becomes 16 (From 76) – 8 (From 18). Subtract the ones place 16-8=8. Then Subtract the tens place 6 (after borrowing) – 1 = 5. So the final result is 58, which is the answer to 76-18.

C. Break-Apart Strategy
The break-apart approach is a third trick that may be applied. The learner uses this strategy to break down the bigger number into smaller quantities that are easier to subtract. For example, if a student is subtracting 18 from 76 she will look for the nearest 10 of 18 first. So that’s 10 and she will subtract it to 76 Thus 76 – 10 = 66. Now the remaining 8, she will use a number line method on this one as illustrated below to get the final answer which is 58. Easy peasy!


D. Look for the nearest tens of the subtrahend
When performing subtraction with two-digit numbers, it can be helpful to identify the nearest ten in the subtrahend to make the calculation easier. Here’s the trick for doing so: Identify the two-digit subtrahend in the problem. In this case it’s 18. Look at the ones place (the digit on the right) of the subtrahend round it up to the next ten. Once you rounded it up, make sure you also do it to the minuend. Then solve.

In addition to these tricks, educators may assist children learn subtraction by using games, puzzles, and other interactive activities. For instance, they can utilize flashcards featuring subtraction problems, prompting students to compete in solving them. Furthermore, youngsters can explore subtraction through online games and applications like Khan Academy Kids, transforming it into an enjoyable and captivating learning experience.
Using these Tricks, educators can make the process of subtracting two-digit numbers faster and more manageable, particularly for young learners who are still honing their subtraction abilities. In addition to traditional methods like the number line, regrouping, break-apart, and rounding the subtrahend to the nearest tens, educators can foster a deeper understanding of subtraction concepts. Youngsters can explore subtraction through online games and applications, transforming it into an enjoyable and captivating learning experience.
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