Steps to Solve Subtraction by Counting Up for Grade 1
FAQs on Subtract by Counting Up: Practice Worksheet for Class 1 Maths
1. How do you subtract by counting up?
Subtracting by counting up is a simple strategy where you find the difference between two numbers by counting from the smaller number to the larger one. The total number of steps you count is the answer.
Here are the steps:
- Start at the smaller number (the one being subtracted).
- Count up one by one until you reach the bigger number.
- Count the steps you took. This number is your subtraction answer.
2. What is an example of the counting up subtraction strategy?
A great example of the counting up method is solving the problem 9 − 6. Instead of counting backwards from 9, you start at the smaller number, 6, and count up to 9.
You would say: “7 (that’s 1 step), 8 (that’s 2 steps), 9 (that’s 3 steps).” Since you took 3 steps, the answer to 9 − 6 is 3.
3. How does this 'subtract by counting up' worksheet help Class 1 students?
This worksheet helps Class 1 students build a strong foundation in subtraction by making the concept visual and intuitive. It uses a variety of activities to reinforce learning and boost confidence.
Key benefits include:
- Developing strong number sense by understanding the relationship between numbers.
- Providing visual subtraction practice with number lines and pictures.
- Building skills for mental subtraction.
- Offering fun, engaging subtraction sums for Class 1 to prevent boredom.
4. Is this subtraction worksheet printable and easy to use?
Yes, this Class 1 maths worksheet is designed to be very user-friendly for parents and teachers. It is available as a free, downloadable PDF that is print-friendly, featuring large fonts and clear instructions to ensure children can work on it without confusion.
5. What is the best way to do subtraction for Class 1?
For Class 1, using visual and hands-on methods is most effective for learning subtraction. The subtracting by counting up strategy is an excellent starting point because it connects to a child's existing counting skills.
Other effective methods for this grade level include:
- Subtracting with objects (like blocks or toys).
- Using a number line to count backwards.
- Drawing pictures to represent the problem.
6. Does this Class 1 Maths worksheet include an answer key?
Yes, an answer key is included with this practice subtraction Class 1 worksheet. The answers are provided to help parents and teachers quickly check a student's work, making it a convenient tool for home practice or classroom assignments.
7. How do number lines help with subtracting numbers by counting?
Number lines are a powerful visual tool that makes the counting up method easier for young learners to understand. A student can place their finger on the smaller number and physically hop or jump to the larger number, counting each hop along the way. This hands-on approach helps solidify their understanding of finding the difference between two numbers.
8. What maths skills does this subtraction activity build?
This subtraction activity for Grade 1 helps build several crucial early maths skills beyond just subtraction. By practising the counting up strategy, students develop:
- Number Sense: Understanding how numbers relate to each other.
- Counting Skills: Reinforcing forward counting.
- Logical Thinking: Applying a step-by-step strategy to solve problems.
- Mental Maths: Preparing them to perform simple calculations in their head.
9. Can I use this worksheet for maths homework practice?
Absolutely. This worksheet is perfect for math homework practice and concept reinforcement. It provides a structured set of problems, including fill-in-the-blanks and simple word problems, that allow students to practice the subtraction counting up strategy taught in school.
10. Can this subtracting by counting up worksheet be used on a tablet?
Yes, you can use this worksheet digitally on a tablet or computer. Simply download the Class 1 maths worksheet PDF and open it in an application that allows for markup or annotations. Your child can then write the answers directly on the screen using a stylus or text tool.

















