What is subtraction?

Hello, students! Today, we are going to learn about subtraction. Subtraction is a basic math skill that helps us find out how many are left when we take away some from a group.

What is Subtraction?

Subtraction means taking away one number from another to find out what remains. The symbol we use for subtraction is "-".

Steps for Subtraction

1. **Understanding the Minus Sign (-):**
- The minus sign (-) means we are taking away numbers.

2. **Subtracting Small Numbers:**
- Let's start with small numbers to see how subtraction works.

**Example:**
- If you have 5 apples and you give away 2 apples, how many apples do you have left?

Let's subtract:
- 5 - 2 = 3

So, 5 apples minus 2 apples equals 3 apples.

3. **Using Objects to Subtract:**
- We can use objects like toys or fruits to understand subtraction better.

**Example:**
- If you have 4 toy cars and you give away 1 toy car, how many toy cars do you have left?

Let's subtract:
- 4 - 1 = 3

So, 4 toy cars minus 1 toy car equals 3 toy cars.

4. **Subtracting Numbers Directly:**
- Sometimes we just subtract the numbers directly without using objects.

**Example:**
- 6 - 2 = 4
- 8 - 3 = 5

 Activities and Practice

1. **Using Fingers to Subtract:**
- Hold up 5 fingers. If you put down 2 fingers, how many fingers are still up?
- 5 - 2 = 3

2. **Subtracting with Toys:**
- Take 5 toy blocks. If you give away 2 blocks, how many blocks are left?
- 5 - 2 = 3

Worksheet:
Subtract the following numbers:

1. 3 - 1 = __
2. 5 - 2 = __
3. 4 - 3 = __