Subtraction with Regrouping Tip and Freebie

Once my sweeties learn to regroup, they start crossing out every number in sight! So, to slow them down and make them think, we added a step to the regrouping process. Before they cross out anything or subtract any number in a multi-digit problem, they have to answer this question: Which has more: top or floor? When they decide, they put a tiny dot beside the larger number. From there, we follow these rules.

1. If the dot is on top, you don't have to stop.

2. If the dot is on the floor, regroup to get more.

3. If the numbers are the same, then zero wins the game.

Placing the dot comes in handy throughout the regrouping process. Our interventions next week will focus on three digit subtraction. So, you just repeat the process for the tens place. Which has more, top or floor? This simple tip has really helped our struggling mathematicians slow down and think it through.

If you would like to have these free anchor cards to post or make into a flip book, just click HERE. 

I would love to hear if these are helpful. What have you found that works?