How to Solve Missing Number Subtraction Questions in Grade 1
FAQs on Class 1 Maths Subtracting Whole Tens: Find the Missing Number
1. How do you find the missing number when subtracting in Class 1?
To find the missing number in a subtraction problem, you must first identify which part of the equation is missing and then use the numbers you know to solve it. This reinforces the relationship between addition and subtraction.
- If the first number is missing (e.g., ___ - 20 = 50), you add the other two numbers: 20 + 50 = 70. The missing number is 70.
- If the second number is missing (e.g., 80 - ___ = 30), you subtract the answer from the first number: 80 - 30 = 50. The missing number is 50.
- If the answer is missing (e.g., 60 - 10 = ___), you perform the subtraction as usual: 60 - 10 = 50. The missing number is 50.
2. How do you teach subtraction with tens for Grade 1?
Teaching subtraction with tens involves helping children see these numbers as groups of ten, which simplifies the process. Using a missing number subtraction worksheet is an effective strategy.
- Use Visuals: Show groups of ten using ten-frame blocks or drawings. To show 50 - 20, you would show 5 groups of ten and then cross out 2 groups.
- Count Backwards: Teach students to count backwards by tens. For 70 - 30, they can start at 70 and count back three tens: 60, 50, 40.
- Focus on the First Digit: Explain that subtracting whole tens is like simple subtraction (e.g., 7 - 3 = 4, so 70 - 30 = 40). This connects to place value.
3. What skills does this Class 1 Maths worksheet on subtracting tens build?
This worksheet is designed to build several foundational maths skills essential for first graders. It moves beyond simple drills to enhance a child's overall number sense.
- Place Value: It reinforces the understanding of tens and ones.
- Number Sense: It improves a child's intuitive grasp of numbers and their relationships.
- Maths Fluency: Regular practice with subtracting whole tens helps children solve problems faster and more accurately.
- Problem-Solving: Finding the missing number encourages logical thinking and understanding of subtraction structure (minuend, subtrahend, difference).
4. How can I use this subtracting whole tens worksheet at home?
This versatile printable subtraction worksheet is perfect for parents to use at home to support their child's learning. Its clear format makes it ideal for independent practice.
- Homework Help: Use it to practice concepts taught in school.
- Revision Tool: It is excellent for revising subtraction basics before an exam.
- Holiday Practice: Keep skills sharp during school breaks.
- Assessment: Gauge your child's understanding of 2-digit subtraction concepts.
5. Is this printable subtraction worksheet available with an answer key?
Yes, this Class 1 Maths worksheet typically comes with a complete answer key. This is included to help parents and teachers quickly check the child's work, saving time and ensuring accuracy. The answer key makes it a reliable resource for at-home learning and assessment.
6. How does finding the missing number help in learning subtraction?
Finding the missing number in a subtraction sentence is a crucial step in developing a deep understanding of the operation. It teaches children that subtraction is not just about 'taking away'.
- It highlights the inverse relationship between addition and subtraction.
- It strengthens understanding of equation structure, including the roles of the minuend (the number being subtracted from), subtrahend (the number being subtracted), and difference (the answer).
- It promotes flexible thinking and builds a strong foundation for more complex algebra concepts later on.
7. What are 'whole tens' in subtraction for Grade 1?
In Grade 1 maths, 'whole tens' are numbers that are multiples of ten, meaning they end in a zero. These are foundational numbers for understanding the concept of place value.
- Examples of whole tens include 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90.
- Worksheets on subtracting whole tens focus on problems like 50 - 20 or 90 - 40, helping kids master subtraction without the complexity of borrowing.
8. How do you do subtraction for Class 1?
Subtraction for Class 1 is introduced through simple, relatable methods that build a strong conceptual base. The focus is on understanding the 'take away' concept and basic facts.
- Using Objects: Children learn by taking away physical objects like counters or blocks.
- Number Lines: They learn to jump backwards on a number line to find the answer.
- Subtracting Tens: Once comfortable with single digits, they learn to subtract multiples of ten (e.g., 40 - 10).
- Missing Numbers: Activities like find the missing number in subtraction help solidify their understanding of how subtraction equations work.
9. Can this missing number subtraction worksheet be used digitally on a tablet?
Yes, this worksheet can be used digitally. Since it is provided as a downloadable PDF subtraction worksheet, you can open it on a tablet or computer. Children can use a stylus or markup tool to write the answers directly on the screen, making it a flexible and eco-friendly option for practice.
10. What is the difference between subtracting with and without borrowing for Grade 1?
The main difference lies in the complexity of the numbers involved in the subtraction problem. This subtracting whole tens worksheet focuses on subtraction without borrowing.
- Subtraction without Borrowing: This is simpler. In every column (ones, tens), the top digit is larger than the bottom digit. For example, in 50 - 20, the 5 (in the tens place) is larger than the 2.
- Subtraction with Borrowing: This is more advanced. It is needed when a digit in the top number is smaller than the digit below it, requiring you to 'borrow' from the next place value. This worksheet provides the foundation needed before tackling borrowing.

















