Adding and subtracting
Add and subtract one-digit and two-digit numbers to 20, including zero
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Teaching Table · Reviewed guide
Set out your lesson
“Adding puts groups together. Subtracting takes some away. Zero means no change: 18+0 stays 18, and 18-0 stays 18. Stay within 20 and build the story before writing the answer.”
Bring to the table
- 20 large counters, blocks, or paper circles
- Paper and marker
- Optional ten-frame drawing
Full guide and materials
- 20 large counters, blocks, or paper circles
- Paper and marker
- Optional ten-frame drawing
- Step 1. Addition: set out 14 counters, add 5 more, and count the total 19.
- Step 2. Subtraction: start with 17, remove 3, and count 14 left.
- Step 3. Zero: show 18, add zero more counters, and say the total is still 18. Then remove zero and notice 18 remains.
- Step 4. Have your child solve one new within-20 story with objects or a quick drawing and explain the answer.
- Quick check. Success means your child correctly solves one addition and one subtraction within 20 with objects or a drawing, and can explain that adding or subtracting zero leaves the number the same.
Worked example. 14+5 → join the groups → 19. 17-3 → remove 3 → 14. 18+0 → still 18 because nothing was added.
Optional challenge. Solve 12-4 and 9+8 with a drawing, then explain how you know each answer is right.
What to notice. Save a photo of one modeled problem or a parent note with 14+5, 17-3, and one zero fact.
Compare teaching approaches
Teaching approaches
Gakuva’s recommended starting approach is selected. You can still compare every option.
1 approach
Adding puts groups together. Subtracting takes some away. Zero means no change: 18+0 stays 18, and 18-0 stays 18. Stay within 20 and build the story before writing the answer.
Spend about 15 minutes solving one addition, one subtraction, and one zero problem within 20.
Family records and proof options
Keep a record of your learning
Save photos, notes, and attendance. Export a proof packet for compliance or portfolio reviews.
Learning resources
Reviewed external links that reinforce this concept. They do not replace Gakuva’s teaching approach.
Toy Theater · Practice link — not the full lesson
Math Mine Addition Subtraction
Practice addition and subtraction by solving equations and removing numbered blocks from a mine. Pair the game with quick parent checks for one-digit and two-digit problems through 20, including zero.
Free · no login · ads
Review and open practice
Save a screenshot of the final Problems Solved count plus a parent note listing correct one-digit and two-digit examples, including addition, subtraction, and a zero case.
Opening this link does not save learning or assess mastery.
Open practice (new tab)Source, access and review notes
Practice addition and subtraction by solving equations and removing numbered blocks from a mine. Pair the game with quick parent checks for one-digit and two-digit problems through 20, including zero.
Save a screenshot of the final Problems Solved count plus a parent note listing correct one-digit and two-digit examples, including addition, subtraction, and a zero case.
Free · no login · ads
Unknown — link only
Check understanding
- Calculate 14 + 5 = 19
- Calculate 17 – 3 = 14
- Add or subtract 0 and explain the result stays the same
“Can your child work out sums like '14 + 5' or '18 − 6' in their head or on paper, and do they know that adding or taking away zero leaves the number unchanged?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Procedural
- Subject
- Mathematics
- Domain
- Addition & Subtraction
- Age range
- Ages 5–6
Standards