Mathematics·Addition & Subtraction·procedural
Adding and subtracting (age 7+)
Add and subtract numbers with up to three digits using formal written methods of columnar addition and subtraction
Suggested ages 7–8
Learning journey
Your child is advancing their calculation skills — learning to add and subtract larger numbers up to 1000, mastering mental math strategies, and solving more complex word problems.
Evidence of understanding
- Set out a columnar addition correctly with digits aligned by place value
- Carry out columnar subtraction with exchange (borrowing) when needed
- Check the answer using the inverse operation or estimation
Assessment prompt
Can Adding and subtracting (age 7+) set out a sum like '347 + 265' or '512 − 278' in columns and work through it step by step, carrying or borrowing where needed?
Standards alignment
Ma/KS2/Y3/AS/2GB · uk-nc-2013
Formal written methods
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2