Math Intervention 3–5 Grade

Addition and Subtraction Concepts 57

Successful Strategies

Comparison subtraction is diffi cult for many students. To
help highlight differences between quantities, students can
use manipulatives. Towers of cubes are especially helpful.
When we ask the student to name the difference, we can
discuss how many more are needed to make the towers even
or equal.

subtract, subtraction,

compare, comparison,

difference, subtrahend,

minuend, minus sign

Math Words to Use

Questions at Different Levels of Cognitive Demand

Recall: What is the difference between 15 and 5?

Comprehension: How would you explain comparison

subtraction?

Application: How would you show 12 – 4 with

pictures?

Analysis: Which number stories represent comparison

subtraction?

Evaluation: What is the best way to fi nd the

difference? Why is it best?

Synthesis: How would you design a new template for

comparison subtraction?

EASY

COMPLEX