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Year 4 - Maths

Subtract 4-digit numbers using column subtraction

Column addition and subtraction with 4-digit numbers

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils will consolidate column addition with regrouping and column subtraction with exchanging to solve problems. They will use known facts and strategies to accurately and efficiently calculate and check.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to subtract two 4-digit numbers using column subtraction, regrouping hundreds, tens and ones.

Key Notes

  • Column subtraction can be used to subtract 4-digit numbers.
  • Work from the ones column on the right so that regrouping can be represented.
  • If the tens value of the subtrahend is greater than the tens value of the minuend, regroup 1 hundred as 10 tens.
  • If the hundreds value of the subtrahend is greater than the hundreds of the minuend, regroup 1 thousand as 10 hundreds.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Column subtraction: Column subtraction is a way of subtracting numbers by writing a number below another.
  • Regrouping: The process of unitising and exchanging between place values is known as regrouping.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Trying to subtract 3 from 2 for example without regrouping and seeing the difference as 1

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Column subtraction can be used to subtract 4-digit numbers. Work from the ones column on the right so that regrouping can be represented.

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

Column subtraction is a way of subtracting numbers by writing a number below another. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Trying to subtract 3 from 2 for example without regrouping and seeing the difference as 1. Correction: Continually acknowledge the whole and the parts in each 'column' so that children know what we have and what is being subtracted.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 4 Maths guide library.