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Year 2 - Maths

Subtract two-digit numbers crossing the tens boundary

Addition and subtraction of two 2-digit numbers

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils apply their knowledge of known facts and understanding of place value to add and subtract with 2-digit numbers both within and across the tens boundary.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to subtract two-digit numbers crossing the tens boundary.

Key Notes

  • When subtracting, the known part of the whole can be partitioned further to subtract the tens and the ones separately.
  • Partitioning both the whole and the parts when subtracting gives a correct answer when the ones digits bridge 10
  • The tens and ones can be subtracted in any order and the remaining part will stay the same.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Partition: To split a whole up into parts; a piece or section of a whole.
  • Part: A piece or section of a whole.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Children may spot a pattern and be able to continue it based on noticing numbers simply increasing or decreasing without making the generalisations needed to understand why this happens.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

When subtracting, the known part of the whole can be partitioned further to subtract the tens and the ones separately. Partitioning both the whole and the parts when subtracting gives a correct answer when the ones digits bridge 10.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Partition'

To split a whole up into parts; a piece or section of a whole. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Children may spot a pattern and be able to continue it based on noticing numbers simply increasing or decreasing without making the generalisations needed to understand why this happens. Correction: Encourage children to articulate not only the pattern, but also why it has occurred, at first using practical equipment to prove it, then mentally visualising and manipulating the numbers involved.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 2 Maths guide library.