Subtract numbers up to a million
Subtracting big numbers with confidence lets your child answer the everyday questions that start with "how many more" and "how much is left." It comes before dividing larger numbers this year, which takes away a chunk at every step. In 5th grade, the same lined-up places help your child subtract decimals, such as 20 − 7.35. You’ll see it whenever you work out how much is left or how many more.
In this video, your child will learn to subtract numbers up to a million.
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
4,876 − 2,341 = ?
Example 2
7,004 − 2,568 = ?
Your child's turn
40,503 − 18,267 = ?
The three key steps
- 1Line up the places.
- 2Subtract each place, ones first.
- 3Not enough? Break from the left.
Mistakes to listen for
- Subtracting the smaller digit from the larger in each column, so 6,342 − 2,518 comes out as 4,236 instead of 3,824.
- Getting stuck subtracting across zeros, as in 5,000 − 2,346, and giving an answer like 3,346 instead of 2,654.
- Putting the smaller number on top because it came first in a story problem, writing 2,846 − 5,120 instead of 5,120 − 2,846.
The lesson shows every step, so your child sees why it works. Read our parent's guide to subtracting numbers up to a million →
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More 4th 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 numbers up to a million, 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 numbers up to a million 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 numbers up to a million
Questions at your child's level, about five minutes a day, on subtracting numbers up to a million and whatever PK-5 skills they need to develop. Unlimited practice, free forever.
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