Game 21: Subtraction Stacks

Chapter 3. Derived Fact Strategies for Addition and Subtraction


Targeted Facts: Differences of 5 or less


Using Subtraction Stacks for Math Fact Fluency:

  • Students need explicit instruction and significant opportunities to practice subtraction strategies. Without these opportunities, students can depend on Counting Up or Counting Back in situations where these strategies are not efficient.
  • One key to developing fluency with subtraction facts is helping students to recognize the distinction between take away and compare situations.
  • Once students have automaticity with foundational facts, they are ready to find any addition or subtraction fact within 20, using a derived fact strategy.
  • Counting Up or Counting Back, Think Addition, and Using 10 as a Benchmark are strategies students may use during Subtraction Stacks.

Word versions of the documents are included so that you can modify the game to fit your students.

Download and print these documents at full size or print at 80% to trim and store in a gallon reclosable zipper storage bag.

Teacher Document:

Student Document:

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