C Curriculum Explorer
Mathematics·Addition & Subtraction·procedural

Mental and written addition and subtraction

Solve addition and subtraction problems using mental and written methods, including problems involving numbers, quantities, and measures

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 a two-step problem: 'I had 35p, spent 12p, then found 5p. How much now?'
  • Choose an appropriate method (mental or written) for a given problem
  • Solve problems involving measures, e.g. 'a ribbon is 45cm, I cut off 18cm'

Assessment prompt

If Mental and written addition and subtraction is given a problem involving lengths, weights, or prices, can they decide whether to add or subtract and carry out the calculation correctly?

Standards alignment

Maths/Y2/AS/1GB · uk-nc-2013

Solve problems using objects and representations

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

Maths/Y2/AS/2GB · uk-nc-2013

Solve problems using mental and written methods

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