C Curriculum Explorer
Mathematics·Addition & Subtraction·procedural

Mental addition and subtraction (age 6+)

Add and subtract a two-digit number and ones mentally and using concrete/pictorial representations

Suggested ages 6–7

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Learning journey

Your child is building strong foundations in addition and subtraction — learning to add and subtract numbers fluently within 20, understanding the relationship between these operations, and applying various mental strategies to solve problems.

Evidence of understanding

  • Calculate 36 + 7 = 43 using objects or mentally
  • Calculate 52 − 4 = 48 using a number line or mentally
  • Explain bridging through 10 when adding ones to a two-digit number

Assessment prompt

Can Mental addition and subtraction (age 6+) work out '36 + 7' or '42 − 5' in their head — keeping the tens in place and only adjusting the ones?

Standards alignment

Maths/Y2/AS/4GB · uk-nc-2013

Add and subtract two-digit numbers and ones

The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 1