Mathematics·Addition & Subtraction·procedural
Adding and subtracting (age 8+)
Add and subtract numbers with up to four digits using formal written methods of columnar addition and subtraction
Suggested ages 8–9
Learning journey
Your child is mastering more complex addition and subtraction — working with larger numbers up to four digits, solving multi-step word problems, and using formal written methods alongside mental strategies.
Evidence of understanding
- Set out and solve a columnar addition with up to four-digit numbers
- Set out and solve a columnar subtraction with exchange across multiple columns
- Check the answer using estimation or inverse operations
Assessment prompt
Can Adding and subtracting (age 8+) line up a sum like '3,842 + 1,765' or '4,301 − 2,658' in columns and work through it correctly — carrying and borrowing across multiple columns?
Standards alignment
Ma/KS2/Y4/AS/1GB · uk-nc-2013
Formal written methods
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2