Everyday Mathematics Counting-Up Subtraction

Counting-Up Subtraction Counting-up subtraction involves: Subtracting by finding the distance between two numbers; Using benchmark numbers; and Adding smaller distances to get the final answer. Everyday Mathematics

Counting-Up Subtraction Solve: 471 – 293 We begin by thinking: What is a good benchmark number to start with for this problem? Since we are finding the distance between 293 and 471, a first benchmark number could be 300. Counting-Up Subtraction Everyday Mathematics

Solve: 471 – 293 We first count up the distance from the starting number (293) to reach the first benchmark number (300). That distance is Counting-Up Subtraction Everyday Mathematics

Solve: 471 – 293 From 300, our next benchmark number could be 400. So we count up the distance from 300 to 400. That distance is Counting-Up Subtraction Everyday Mathematics

Solve: 471 – 293 We can count up the distance from 400 to 471 in one step Counting-Up Subtraction Everyday Mathematics

Solve: 471 – 293 We circle all of the distances we counted up between the starting number (293) and the final number (471). Now we add the circled numbers = Counting-Up Subtraction Everyday Mathematics

Solve: 471 – 293 The distance between 293 and 471 is 178. This method is like counting up to make change Counting-Up Subtraction Everyday Mathematics

When children use counting-up subtraction, they practice a variety of skills related to number sense and algebraic reasoning. Exploring the relationship between addition and subtraction; Using benchmark numbers; and Adding a set of distances to get a total. Many children find counting up much easier than taking away. For example: Counting-Up Subtraction Everyday Mathematics