Subtraction (Year 2)

Subtract numbers with regrouping using column methods and number lines.

The questions below are generated to match the National Curriculum for Year 2 and get harder as you progress from Rookie to Guru.

Worked examples

RookieRead and interpret directly.

What is 40 + 30?

  • 70
  • 60
  • 80
  • 73

Answer: 70. Add tens to tens.

ProCompare and infer.

Two ways to add 19 + 6. Which is more efficient?

  • 19 + 1 = 20, then + 5 = 25 (bridge through 20).
  • Count on from 19: 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25.
  • Subtract 1.
  • Double 19.

Answer: 19 + 1 = 20, then + 5 = 25 (bridge through 20).. Bridging is faster than counting on.

GuruMulti-step reasoning.

Sam has 23p. Mum gives him 14p more. He spends 8p. How much left?

  • 29p
  • 37p
  • 31p
  • 45p

Answer: 29p. Two steps: add then subtract.

Related skills

Frequently asked questions

What is subtraction?
Subtract numbers with regrouping using column methods and number lines.
How can my child practise subtraction at home?
Work through the examples below, then start a free adaptive session. Northstar adjusts the difficulty automatically and tracks mastery over time.

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