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subtraction

Subtraction with ten frames

See missing parts and take-away actions using ten frames.

Quick answer

Subtraction with ten frames helps you see how many are left when some are taken away, by using a grid of ten boxes to show numbers clearly.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to use ten frames to show subtraction problems and find the answer by counting how many are left. Success signs:
  • You can fill a ten frame with counters to show a number
  • You can take away counters and count how many are left
  • You can write a subtraction sentence to match what you see
  • You can solve subtraction problems using ten frames

Why this matters

Using ten frames helps you understand subtraction better. It shows you exactly what happens when you take away. This method works well for numbers up to 10 and helps build strong maths skills. You'll use this in games, school, and everyday life when you need to share, count, or compare things.

How it works

A ten frame is a grid with 10 boxes, usually 2 rows of 5. You can use counters or draw dots to show numbers. To subtract, you:
  1. Fill the ten frame with counters to show the first number
  2. Take away the number you are subtracting
  3. Count how many are left
  4. Write the subtraction sentence

Examples you can see

Let's try a simple subtraction problem: 7 - 3. Step 1: Fill 7 boxes with counters or dots.
● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Step 2: Take away 3 counters.
● ● ●
Step 3: Count how many are left. There are 4 left. Step 4: Write the subtraction sentence: 7 - 3 = 4 Here's another example: 9 - 5
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Take away 5:
● ● ●
Count the remaining counters: 4 Subtraction sentence: 9 - 5 = 4

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Magic Garden You are a gardener with 10 magical flowers in your garden. Each flower is a different colour and has a special power. First time: You have 10 flowers. A rabbit comes and eats 3 flowers. How many flowers are left? Fill a ten frame with 10 counters. Take away 3. Count the rest. Second time: You have 10 flowers. A bird comes and eats 2 flowers. How many flowers are left? Fill a ten frame with 10 counters. Take away 2. Count the rest. Third time: You have 10 flowers. A storm comes and destroys 5 flowers. How many flowers are left? Fill a ten frame with 10 counters. Take away 5. Count the rest. Fourth time: You have 10 flowers. A friend gives you 2 more flowers. How many flowers do you have now? This time, you add, not take away. Use your ten frame to show 10 flowers, then add 2 more.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking you can't subtract a bigger number from a smaller number. Why it happens: Children may not yet understand negative numbers. Fix: Explain that you can only take away what you have. If you have 5 apples and want to take away 7, you can't do it. You can only take away 5 or fewer.
  • Mistake: Counting the counters you took away instead of the ones left. Why it happens: Confusion between taking away and counting what remains. Fix: Remind them to count the boxes that still have counters in them.
  • Mistake: Forgetting to show the subtraction sentence. Why it happens: Not connecting the visual to the written number sentence. Fix: Practice writing the sentence after every ten frame subtraction.

Parent and carer guide

To help your child with subtraction using ten frames:
  • Use real counters or draw dots on paper to make it visual
  • Ask your child to explain what they did after each problem
  • Encourage them to write the subtraction sentence after each step
  • Start with numbers up to 10, then gradually increase
  • Use everyday situations like sharing toys or eating snacks
  • Don't worry if they make mistakes - it's part of learning!

Practice questions

  1. What is 8 - 3?
  2. What is 6 - 2?
  3. What is 10 - 4?
  4. What is 7 - 5?
  5. What is 9 - 6?
  6. What is 5 - 1?
  7. What is 3 - 3?
  8. What is 10 - 7?
  9. What is 4 - 0?
  10. What is 12 - 5?
Answers:
  1. 5
  2. 4
  3. 6
  4. 2
  5. 3
  6. 4
  7. 0
  8. 3
  9. 4
  10. 7

FAQ

What is a ten frame?

A ten frame is a grid with 10 boxes, usually 2 rows of 5, used to help show numbers and make maths easier to understand.

How do I use a ten frame for subtraction?

First, fill the ten frame with counters to show the first number. Then, take away the number you're subtracting. Count how many are left to find the answer.

Why is subtraction with ten frames helpful?

It helps you see exactly what happens when you take away. It makes subtraction easier to understand and remember.

Can I use ten frames with bigger numbers?

Yes! You can use multiple ten frames for numbers over 10, or use them to help understand bigger subtraction problems.

What if I don't have counters?

You can draw dots, use coins, or even use your fingers to show the numbers on the ten frame.