C Curriculum Explorer
Mathematics·Addition & Subtraction·conceptual

Finding a missing number in addition

Understand subtraction as finding an unknown addend (e.g. 10 − 8 = ? is the same as 8 + ? = 10)

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

  • Solve 10 − 8 by thinking 'what do I add to 8 to make 10?'
  • Explain that subtraction can be thought of as a missing-addend problem
  • Use known addition facts to solve related subtraction problems

Assessment prompt

Can Finding a missing number in addition see that '10 − 8 = ?' is the same as asking 'what do I add to 8 to reach 10?' — so they can use their adding knowledge to help with subtraction?

Standards alignment

1.OA.4US · ccss-math

Subtraction as unknown-addend problem

Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · 1