Subtracting Decimals with Visual Models

Your students may know how to subtract decimals with the standard algorithm, but do they know how to represent these problems with base-10 blocks? Teach Starter has developed a resource to help your students practice decimal subtraction with concrete models.

To play, find all three matching pieces for each decimal subtraction problem. Each problem will have the base-ten subtraction representation, the standard subtraction problem, and the answer in standard form.

Through this activity, students will show they can subtract decimals to the hundredths place using visual representations.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to support your math lessons. 

In addition to individual student work time, use this match-up activity to enhance learning through guided math groups or whole class lessons.

If you have a mixture of above and below-level learners, check out these suggestions for keeping students on track with the concepts: 

🆘 Support Struggling Students

For students who need additional support, provide physical base-ten blocks for students to use when modeling each subtraction problem.

➕ Challenge Fast Finishers

If there are students who need a bit of a challenge, encourage them to think of additional subtraction problems that result in the same answer.

Plan lessons for all ability levels with our 10 Best Scaffolding Strategies! 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. An answer key is included with this download.

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

This resource was created by Kaylyn Chupp, a teacher in Florida and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time:  

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Adding and Subtracting Decimals with Base-10 Blocks – Worksheet

Use this worksheet when teaching your students how to model adding and subtracting decimals with base-10 blocks.

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Adding and Subtracting Decimals – Differentiated Mystery Image Worksheets

Have students practice adding and subtracting decimals with this mystery image worksheet.

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Addition and Subtraction with Decimals – Task Cards

Practice adding and subtracting multi-digit decimals with this set of 16 task cards.