Printable Lesson Plan on Understanding Subtraction
Lesson Title:”Understanding Subtraction”
Lesson Objective: Students will be able to understand the concept of subtraction and use subtraction to solve problems involving taking away.
Materials needed:
Introduction (5 minutes): Begin the lesson by reviewing the concept of addition and the related vocabulary (e.g. “more,” “sum,” “total”). Then introduce the concept of subtraction and the related vocabulary (e.g. “less,” “difference,” “remainder”). Use the whiteboard to write the equation “7 – 3 = ?” and ask the students what the answer is. Write the equation “10 – 5 = ?” and ask the students what the answer is. Explain that subtraction is the opposite of addition and it is used to find out how many are left when some are taken away.
Direct Instruction (10 minutes): Using the flashcards or index cards, model how to solve subtraction problems. Show the students a flashcard with the problem “7 – 3 = ?” and use manipulatives (e.g. Unifix cubes) to physically take away 3 from 7. Write the answer, “4,” on the whiteboard. Repeat this process with different problems, and ask the students to give the answer before filling it in.
Guided Practice (15 minutes): Give each student a set of manipulatives and a subtraction problem written on an index card. Have the students work with a partner to solve the problem using manipulatives. Walk around the room and provide support and guidance as needed.
Independent Practice (20 minutes): Distribute the “Subtraction” worksheet to each student. The worksheet includes a variety of subtraction problems that can be solved using manipulatives. Review the instructions with the students and give them time to complete the worksheet independently.
Closure (5 minutes): Ask the students to share one problem they solved on the worksheet and how they used manipulatives to solve it. Remind the students that subtraction is the opposite of addition and it is used to find out how many are left when some are taken away.
Assessment:
Note: This is a basic lesson plan, it is important to adjust the duration of each part according to the class dynamics and the student’s learning pace. Also, it is important to keep in mind that for first graders it is important to use manipulatives and visual aids to help them understand the concept, as well as to keep the numbers small and manageable.
