Recall and use all the subtraction facts of 6

The "Recall and use all the subtraction facts of 6" activity, part of the CanDoMaths ArithmeKit, is a comprehensive exercise designed to strengthen a child's understanding of subtraction by using the number 6. The task encourages learners to identify and match pairs of numbers that, when subtracted from 6, yield the correct difference. For example, the pair 6 - 3 matches with the number 3, because when 3 is subtracted from 6, the result is indeed 3. The activity is interactive, suggesting the use of physical cubes to visually represent the subtraction process. Children are prompted to 'snap off' a certain number of cubes from a set of 6 and then determine how many are left, thereby exploring all possible outcomes of subtracting from 6.

Additionally, the activity includes a series of fill-in-the-blank equations where learners must insert the correct digit to complete the subtraction fact. This not only reinforces their understanding of subtraction but also encourages them to recognise patterns and relationships between numbers. For example, filling in the blanks to complete the equation 6 - ___ = 4 with the number 2, as 6 minus 2 equals 4. The exercise also challenges students to correct misconceptions, such as the incorrect statement "6 - 6 = 6," by using practical resources to demonstrate that subtracting different amounts from 6 can result in seven different outcomes, ranging from 0 to 6. The ArithmeKit provides a structured approach to mastering basic subtraction facts, an essential skill for young mathematicians.