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Use the minus sign

The minus sign (−) represents subtraction: finding how many remain after taking away, comparing two quantities to find the difference, or determining an unknown part in a related addition fact. A learner interprets and writes subtraction equations such as 9 − 4 = 5, understanding that the sign relates quantities and their result rather than indicating that the following number is negative; work is limited to whole numbers within 20, not negative numbers or formal algebraic generalizations.

Detailed Explanation: Use the minus sign

The minus sign, , means take away or find how many are left.

Example: You have 88 apples and take away 33.

  1. Start with 88.
  2. Take away 33: count back 33 numbers: (7,6,5)(7, 6, 5).
  3. You have 55 apples left.

Write the subtraction equation:

83=58 - 3 = 5

Read it as: “Eight minus three equals five.” The minus sign tells us to take away 33 from 88.

Learn by doing: Use the minus sign

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


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