Double-Digit Subtraction for Kids

Understanding Double-Digit Subtraction: A Fun Guide

Let’s learn about double-digit subtraction! We’ll break it down into easy steps and learn a cool trick called regrouping. This will help you understand how to subtract bigger numbers.

What is Subtraction?

Subtraction is when you take one number away from another. The answer you get is called the difference. For example, if you have six apples and you eat two, you can write it like this:

6 – 2 = 4

This means you have four apples left.

Double-Digit Subtraction

Now, let’s talk about subtracting bigger numbers, like double digits. Imagine you have 66 blueberries, and you and your friends eat 54 of them. How many are left? Let’s find out:

66 – 54

Step-by-Step Process

Here’s how to solve it:

1. Subtract the Ones Column: Look at the rightmost numbers. We have 6 (from 66) and 4 (from 54). Subtract them: 6 – 4 = 2
2. Subtract the Tens Column: Now look at the left numbers. We have 6 (from 66) and 5 (from 54). Subtract them: 6 – 5 = 1

So, 66 – 54 = 12. You have 12 blueberries left!

Another Example

Let’s try another one:

87 – 53

1. Subtract the Ones Column: 7 – 3 = 4
2. Subtract the Tens Column: 8 – 5 = 3

So, 87 – 53 = 34. The difference is 34.

The Need for Regrouping

Sometimes, the number on the bottom is bigger than the number on top in the ones column. Let’s see what to do then:

22 – 17

1. Subtract the Ones Column: 2 – 7 is tricky! We need to regroup.

What is Regrouping?

Regrouping, or borrowing, helps when the top number is smaller. Here’s how:

1. Borrow from the Tens Column: Take 1 from the tens column (2 becomes 1) and add 10 to the ones (making it 12).
2. Now, subtract: 12 – 7 = 5 for the ones.
3. Subtract the Tens: 1 – 1 = 0.

So, 22 – 17 = 5. The difference is 5.

Another Regrouping Example

Let’s try one more:

43 – 25

1. Subtract the Ones Column: 3 – 5 needs regrouping. Borrow 1 from the tens (4 becomes 3), making the ones 13.
2. Now, 13 – 5 = 8.
3. Subtract the Tens: 3 – 2 = 1.

So, 43 – 25 = 18. The difference is 18.

Conclusion

Double-digit subtraction is easy when you know the steps. Remember to subtract the ones first, then the tens, and use regrouping when needed. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be a subtraction superstar!