Addition and Subtraction - Subtract two 4-digit numbers (one exchange) - Planning

In a Year 5 mathematics lesson focusing on subtraction, students are introduced to the concept of subtracting four-digit numbers with one exchange. The lesson utilises place value counters and grids as key resources, alongside worksheets and a presentation. The key vocabulary for this session includes terms such as 'exchange', 'subtraction', 'difference', and the place value terms 'thousands', 'hundreds', 'tens', and 'ones'. The lesson begins with a starter activity that revisits previous learning and sets the stage for understanding the necessity of exchanging when there aren't enough counters in a column. During the class, children engage in partner discussions and practical activities to physically manipulate place value counters on a grid to subtract numbers, highlighting the process of exchanging when needed.

As the lesson progresses, children move from practical manipulation of counters to the formal column written method of subtraction. They are encouraged to use place value counters alongside the written method to solidify their understanding of when and why exchanges are made. The lesson includes differentiated worksheets to cater to various learning levels, from working towards understanding to achieving greater depth. Students are prompted to reflect on their learning with questions that ask them to identify the skills they have used, what they found challenging, and what they will remember from the lesson. Common misconceptions are addressed, such as the tendency to switch digits around when faced with subtracting a smaller digit from a larger one. The lesson aims to build a strong foundation in subtraction with exchanges, using both concrete and pictorial representations to aid comprehension.