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Subtraction using Number Line

  • Writer: Our Special Story
    Our Special Story
  • May 13
  • 3 min read

What is it

This printable is a set of worksheets designed to teach children subtraction up to 10 using a number line. A number line helps children visualise numbers and understand subtraction as “taking away.” Children learn that subtraction means moving left on the number line. 


The worksheets are structured using a prompt fading approach, where children first receive strong visual support such as colour coding, arrows and tracing prompts. These prompts are gradually reduced so that children can eventually solve subtraction problems independently using the number line. 


Hands-on activities are also included to allow children to physically move along the number line, making learning more interactive and concrete.


Teaching Objectives

  • Understand subtraction as “taking away.”

  • Learn that subtraction means moving backwards on a number line.Practise counting backwards to solve subtraction problems.

  • Solve subtraction equations up to 10 using a number line.

  • Develop independent problem-solving skills with gradually reduced prompts.



How to use

  1. Introduction to Subtraction

    1. Explain that subtraction means taking away.

  2. Subtraction with Number Line

    1. Worksheets provide step-by-step learning progression.

    2. Teach your child to recognise the number line template by using the colour prompts. 

    3. The letters on each page (A–G) indicate the level of support provided, gradually building towards independent problem-solving.

    4. Highlight that when we subtract using a number line, we move left.

    5. Blank templates are provided for more practice.



  3. Hands-on Number Line Activities

    1. Interactive activities where children can move a character along the number line to solve subtraction problems. 

    2. Two different levels to choose from: 

      1. Activity 2 - For children who are unable to write yet. 

      2. Activity 3 - For children to practice their fine motor skills and writing skills. 

    3. Laminate the templates for future use. 



Teaching tips

  • Practice counting backwards together from 10 to 0 on the number line to help your child become familiar with moving left along the number line.

    • Use gestures, such as finger pointing, to create visual support for the child.

  • Encourage your child to count aloud while moving left along the number line.

  • Allow your child to physically move objects or characters along the number line to make learning more engaging.

  • Focus on understanding the concept rather than rushing to the answer. For example, after solving, ask your child to explain the steps, “Why did we move backwards?” or “How did you know the answer is 4?”. 

  • For children who are not able to write/trace using pencil, consider using other methods such as tracing using fingers or saying the answer out loud.



Here are some videos that can help with teaching the concept:




Embed more learning opportunities

  • Receptive language – Ask your child to point to a number on the number line. For example, “Point to where we start.”

  • Expressive language – Point to a subtraction equation and ask, “What number do we start with?” or “What number are we taking away?”

  • Daily life practice – Create simple subtraction situations during play. For example, “You have 5 cars. If we take away 2, how many are left?”




-Specially created by Our Special Story-


Our Special Story provides Home Based 1-on-1 ABA Therapy, Early Intervention Class, School Readiness Class, Social Skills Class and School Shadowing for children with autism spectrum disorder, speech delay and other special needs. 


ABA Therapy can help to improve behaviours, attention, speech and communication, cognitive skills, motor skills, school readiness, social skills, self help skills and more!







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