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Interpret subtraction as taking away

Subtraction as taking away represents removing a known amount from an initial quantity, leaving a remainder; for quantities within 20, an equation such as 9−3=69-3=6 identifies the starting amount, amount removed, and result, and can be modeled with a part–whole diagram or number line. The interpretation establishes that the order of the quantities matters and connects subtraction with finding an unknown addend, without extending to negative results, larger-number algorithms, or more abstract difference and comparison contexts.

Detailed Explanation: Interpret subtraction as taking away

Subtraction can show taking away.

Start with a group. Take away some objects. Count how many are left.

Example

You have 9 apples. You take away 3 apples. How many apples are left?

  1. Start with 99 apples.
  2. Take away 33 apples.
  3. Count the apples that remain: 66 apples.

Write this as:

9−3=69-3=6

In this equation:

  • 99 is the starting amount.
  • 33 is the amount taken away.
  • 66 is the amount left.

You can also use a number line. Start at 99 and move back 33 steps:

9→8→7→69 \mathbin{\to} 8 \mathbin{\to} 7 \mathbin{\to} 6

So, 9−3=69-3=6. Subtraction tells what remains after some of the starting amount is removed.

Learn by doing: Interpret subtraction as taking away

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    Picture Numbers - Subtracting - Picture to Equation (Within 20)

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