Lesson objective: Subtract by taking from a total within 5.
This lesson helps to build procedural skill with subtraction within 5. Drawings and number paths are used here because they highlight the contrast of the orginal set with the remaining amount after some is removed. This work develops students' understanding that subtraction can be understood as taking from a total.
Students engage in Mathematical Practice 8 (Look for and make use of structure) as they begin to form deep connections to the structure of a whole set when part is removed. Students notice the remaining set is decreased as the set that is taken from the total increases.
Key vocabulary:
- remaining
- subtract
- subtraction
- take from
- total
Special materials needed:
- counters
- cups (optional)
- record sheet (or other tool for recording thinking)
- story mat