Common Core: 2nd Grade Math

This subject covers foundational math concepts for 2nd graders, including addition, subtraction, and basic problem-solving skills.

Basic Concepts

Subtraction Strategies

Taking Numbers Apart

Subtraction means taking away some numbers from a bigger number to find out what's left. In 2nd grade, you'll subtract numbers up to 1,000!

Counting Backwards

Use a number line to count backwards. If you have 52 and subtract 19, start at 52 and move 19 spaces back.

Breaking Numbers into Parts

To subtract 56 - 29, you can break apart 56 into 50 + 6 and 29 into 20 + 9. Subtract tens (50 - 20 = 30) and ones (6 - 9 = -3). If you get a negative number, regroup from the tens!

Checking Your Work

You can check subtraction by adding. If 52 - 19 = 33, then 33 + 19 should be 52.

Why Subtraction Is Useful

Subtraction helps you figure out how much is left, how far you have to go, or how much you need.

Examples

  • 45 - 18 = 27 by breaking apart into tens and ones.

  • Finding how many apples are left after giving some away.

In a Nutshell

Subtraction finds out how much is left when you take some away.