Max Maths, Year 3, Learn together, Subtracting 1-digit numbers from 3-digit numbers with regrouping

In the Max Maths Year 3 curriculum, students are introduced to the concept of subtracting 1-digit numbers from 3-digit numbers with regrouping. This essential mathematical skill is presented in a way that is easy for young learners to understand and apply. For example, Padma has a total of £265 initially. If she gives £8 to her mother, the students are encouraged to visualise this transaction using counting blocks. The blocks are divided into ones, tens, and hundreds to represent the total amount. To subtract £8, they need to regroup one ten into ten ones, which allows them to easily remove the eight blocks representing the £8. After the subtraction, Padma is left with 257 blocks, illustrating that she has £257 remaining.

Another practical example provided is about Toby, who starts with 424 apples. When he sells 7 of them, students must calculate the number of unsold apples. Again, counting blocks are used to represent the total number of apples, and students cross out the blocks corresponding to the 7 sold apples. This visual and hands-on approach helps students comprehend the subtraction process and reinforces their understanding of regrouping. By engaging with these real-life scenarios, students learn to confidently subtract smaller numbers from larger ones and grasp the concept of regrouping, which is a fundamental aspect of arithmetic operations.