Learning Math With Manipulatives - Base Ten Blocks Part II
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Reference Education -> subcategory K-12 Education.
Learning Math with Manipulatives: Base Ten Blocks (Part II)
Understanding Subtraction with Base Ten Blocks
In Part I, we explored how to represent and add numbers using base ten blocks. Now, let’s tackle a challenge many children face: subtraction. Often seen as addition's reverse, subtraction on paper can be tricky, but using base ten blocks simplifies the process.
Breaking Down Base Ten Blocks
Base ten blocks come in four types: cubes (ones), rods (tens), flats (hundreds), and blocks (thousands). You can trade groups of ten for a higher place value block?"like ten cubes for one rod. Understanding how to trade down blocks is essential for subtraction. For example, you can swap one flat for ten rods, as both equal 100.
Key Terms
- Minuend: The number you're subtracting from.
- Subtrahend: The amount you’re subtracting.
- Difference: The result of the subtraction.
In the equation 234 - 187 = 47, 234 is the minuend, 187 is the subtrahend, and 47 is the difference. These terms help explain the subtraction process with base ten blocks.
How to Subtract Using Base Ten Blocks
Start by representing the minuend with base ten blocks, arranging them from largest to smallest. To subtract, remove blocks equal to the subtrahend. If needed, trade larger blocks for smaller ones to proceed.
For example, represent 234 with 2 flats, 3 rods, and 4 cubes. To subtract 187 (1 flat, 8 rods, 7 cubes), you’ll need to trade one flat for 10 rods, and one rod for 10 cubes, ending with 1 flat, 12 rods, and 14 cubes. Remove the subtrahend, leaving you with 0 flats, 4 rods, and 7 cubes. The difference is 47.
Starting Simple
Begin with problems that don’t require trading, such as 1954 - 1831. For advanced students, zeros present a challenge: 4000 - 3657 involves multiple trades. The website [math-drills.com](http://www.math-drills.com) offers a variety of free worksheets, including those with no regrouping, and provides answer keys for feedback.
Building a Strong Foundation
Regular practice with base ten blocks builds a conceptual understanding of subtraction, making it easier to transition to pencil and paper methods. Students who learn subtraction conceptually can more effectively identify and correct errors.
Base ten blocks are versatile and extend beyond addition and subtraction of whole numbers. In Part III, we’ll explore their other uses.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Learning Math With Manipulatives - Base Ten Blocks Part II .
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