The learner evaluates a subtraction equation by interpreting the minuend, subtrahend, and difference, then uses counting back, a number line, place-value drawings, or the inverse relationship with addition to determine whether the result is reasonable. Finding and correcting an error involves identifying the mistaken quantity, operation, or step and replacing it with the difference for problems within 20 and straightforward two-digit problems within 100; formal algorithms for larger numbers and more advanced regrouping are not included.
On this page:
- Learn “Find and correct a subtraction error” with a detailed explanation of the concept
- Master “Find and correct a subtraction error” with unlimited, free practice problems
- Download (or modify) a free worksheet on Find and correct a subtraction error you can use at home or in class with practice problems that scaffold and explore “Find and correct a subtraction error” from different perspectives.
Detailed Explanation: Find and correct a subtraction error
In a subtraction equation:
- The minuend is the number you start with.
- The subtrahend is the number you take away.
- The difference is the answer.
Example:
Let’s check the answer.
-
Start with the minuend, .
-
Count back numbers:
-
We landed on , not . So the difference should be .
The error was in the answer. Correct the equation:
We can check with addition:
Because the addition is true, the corrected subtraction is reasonable.
Learn by doing: Find and correct a subtraction error
Click a topic below to practice the foundational skills you'll need, learn the steps, or master this skill
Your results
Practice with unlimited practice problems
Practice:
Subtraction - Missing Value, Within 20
Earned ?
Download/Modify Free Grade 1 'Find and correct a subtraction error' Worksheet
Print this free 'Find and correct a subtraction error' worksheet to practice this skill away from the computer. Click 'Modify' to easily customize this worksheet to your exact needs.
This Worksheet Includes:
- Subtraction - Missing Value, Within 20
- Subtraction - Missing Value, 2 Digit, 1 Number
- Subtraction - Balance Equation - One Digit, Two Terms
- Subtraction - Missing Value, Within 10
- Subtraction - Missing Value, Within 5
- Subtraction - Missing Value, 1 Digit, 1 Number
- Subtraction - Missing Value, Multiples of Tens