Subtract within 1000
Subtracting bigger numbers lets your child answer real questions about distance, time, and money: how far is left, how many more, and how much change. Breaking a hundred into ten tens is the key idea. It sits behind every written method for subtracting larger numbers. Once your child sees why it works, numbers with zeros, like 500 - 238, become puzzles they can solve. And checking by adding is a habit that will serve them every year.
In this video, your child will learn to subtract within one thousand.
The lesson stops at each question for your child's answer.
Three problems, each a little harder
Each problem is worked step by step. Your child will solve the last one before Bobby shows how.
Example 1
452 − 127 = ?
Example 2
403 − 158 = ?
Your child's turn
605 − 248 = ?
The three key steps
- 1Start by subtracting the ones.
- 2Not enough? Break one.
- 3Then the tens, then hundreds.
Mistakes to listen for
- Taking the top digit from the bottom one when the top is smaller, so 402 - 175 becomes 373.
- Checking by adding the two starting numbers, 402 + 175, instead of adding the answer back to 175.
- Breaking apart a ten but forgetting to lower the tens digit, so 352 - 128 comes out as 234 instead of 224.
The lesson shows every step, so your child sees why it works. Read our parent's guide to subtracting within 1,000 →
Is your child ready to practice what they've learned?
Bobby's Math Club offers unlimited practice for free.
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More 2nd grade Numbers & Place Value, with questions your child answers along the way.
Questions parents ask
Does my child need an account to watch?
No. You can watch this on any device at any time. If your child would like to practice subtracting within 1,000, and you'd like parent-friendly reports on your child's progress and growth, you can join Bobby's Math Club for unlimited free practice.
What happens when my child answers a question?
A right answer gets a cheer, and the lesson carries on. If your child isn't sure, they can tap "I don't know yet", and Bobby gives the answer and shows another example. Nothing is scored or stored.
Is this the same lesson that's on YouTube?
Yes. Here, the lesson stops at each question and waits for your child to answer. On YouTube, each question stays on screen for a few seconds, and then the lesson plays on.
Where can I learn more?
There's a short, kid-friendly lesson like this one for every Pre-K to 5th grade math skill, all in our video library. Our parent's guide to subtracting within 1,000 has more on where kids get stuck and how you can help at home. In the club, your child practices at just the right level, about five minutes a day, and you get parent-friendly reports as they grow. Learn more about how it works →
Practice subtracting within 1,000
Questions at your child's level, about five minutes a day, on subtracting within 1,000 and whatever PK-5 skills they need to develop. Unlimited practice, free forever.
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