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Addition and Subtraction

Addition combines numbers and subtraction takes away. They are opposites: if 8 + 5 = 13, then 13 โˆ’ 5 = 8.

๐Ÿ’ก Fun fact

Adding in any order gives the same answer: 3 + 9 = 9 + 3.

All about Addition and Subtraction

Addition combines two or more numbers to make a total. Subtraction takes one number away from another to find the difference. The symbols + and โˆ’ tell you which operation to do.

Addition and subtraction are opposites. If 8 + 5 = 13, then 13 โˆ’ 5 = 8. Using column methods, carrying and borrowing help you add and subtract bigger numbers, and mental strategies like counting on make sums easier.

๐ŸŽฎ Try it yourself!

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Real-life uses of Addition and Subtraction

  • Totalling the points in a game
  • Working out how many sweets are left after sharing
  • Checking that a bill adds up correctly

Frequently asked questions about Addition and Subtraction

What is carrying in addition?

When the total of a column is ten or more, you write the units digit and carry the tens digit to the next column.

What is borrowing in subtraction?

When the top digit in a column is smaller, you borrow one ten from the next column to make the subtraction possible.

How can I check my answer?

Use the opposite operation. If you added to get a total, subtract to see whether you return to the starting number.