★Subtract by Counting Back
Grade 1 Math Worksheet
NameDate
Count the hops back. Write the difference.
9 - 3 =
7 - 3 =
4 - 2 =
5 - 3 =
6 - 4 =
10 - 2 =
PencilGoGrade 1 · Math · Subtraction
1st Grade Subtract by Counting Back worksheets
6 printable versionsOn LevelAbout 3 minutes eachFree · no account
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About this worksheet
Counting back is the first subtraction strategy children can use on their own: start at the first number and hop backward once for each number you take away. On this grade 1 worksheet each line shows a subtraction sentence and a number line with the hops drawn backward, and your child counts the hops to find where they land and writes the difference on the line.
The number at the landing spot is hidden, so your child has to count. Support and standard sheets use a line to 10 and take away 2 or 3, and challenge sheets use a line to 20. Say the numbers backward together as you point at each hop.
What your child will learn
- Subtract by counting back along a number line
- Count each hop once
- Find the number a set of backward hops lands on
- Write a difference on a line
Common Core standard: 1.OA.C.5
Worked example
For 9 - 3, start at 9 and hop back 3: 8, 7, 6. The hops land on 6, so write 6.
Common mistake
Counting the starting number as the first hop, which lands one number too high.
Helpful hint
Put your finger on the first number. Say one number for each hop back.
Questions parents ask
What is the most common mistake with subtract by counting back?
Counting the starting number as the first hop, which lands one number too high.
How can I help my child with subtract by counting back?
Put your finger on the first number. Say one number for each hop back.
Are these 1st grade math worksheets free to print?
Yes. All 6 printable versions on this page are free to download and print, with no account needed.
Similar: Subtraction Within 10 · Subtraction Within 20
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