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Subtraction Jump Strategy

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The Subtraction Jump Strategy is an effective mental math technique designed to help students quickly and accurately solve subtraction problems. Our free worksheet, "Subtraction Jump Strategy," is perfect for students in year 1 through year 4 who are learning about mental subtraction strategies in their maths lessons.

 

Worksheet Overview

This worksheet is divided into two pages, each offering different levels of support to help students master the jump strategy.​

  • Page 1: Provides extensive scaffolding to guide students through the process of subtracting using the jump strategy.

  • Page 2: Challenges students to apply the strategy independently without the provided scaffolding.

 

Detailed Breakdown

Page 1: Guided Practice

The first page of the worksheet features two-digit subtraction problems, such as 41 - 24 = __. Next to each problem, there is a number line starting at the larger number (41 in this example).

  • Number Line: The number line has large jumps and small jumps to help students visualize the subtraction process.

    • Large Jumps: Represent tens. For example, starting at 41, two large jumps of -10 each land on 31 and then 21.

    • Small Jumps: Represent ones. From 21, four small jumps of -1 each lead to 20, 19, 18, and finally 17.

  • Boxes: Below the number line, boxes are provided for students to write the numbers they land on after each jump.

By completing these steps, students understand how to break down the subtraction process into manageable parts, making it easier to solve problems mentally.

 

Page 2: Independent Practice

The second page includes similar subtraction problems but with blank number lines. Students must:

  • Draw the jumps.

  • Fill in the numbers they land on.

  • Write the final answer, demonstrating their understanding of the jump strategy.

 

Benefits of the Subtraction Jump Strategy

  1. Enhances Mental Math Skills: By visualizing the subtraction process, students develop stronger mental math abilities.

  2. Breaks Down Complex Problems: The jump strategy simplifies subtraction by breaking it into smaller, more manageable steps.

  3. Builds Confidence: With practice, students become more confident in their ability to solve subtraction problems quickly and accurately.

 

How to Use the Worksheet

  1. Classroom Practice: Use the first page for guided practice during lessons. Teachers can demonstrate the strategy on a whiteboard while students follow along on their worksheets.

  2. Homework Assignments: Assign the second page for homework to reinforce independent practice of the jump strategy.

  3. Assessment Tool: Use the worksheet to assess students’ understanding and mastery of the subtraction jump strategy.

 

Download and Get Started

All our resources are available for free. Click the download button below to get your copy of the "Subtraction Jump Strategy" worksheet and start helping your students develop their mental subtraction skills today!

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Integrating the Subtraction Jump Strategy into your teaching will provide your students with a valuable tool for quick and accurate subtraction. Be sure to explore our other free resources to further support and enrich your maths curriculum.

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