Subtract a Number with Reptiles and Amphibians — Kindergarten

A group of frogs, snakes and a turtle sits beside a minus sign and a written number on every row, with the answer left blank. The child counts the pictured set first, then takes the number away to say how many reptiles are left. It is subtraction with one foot in counting and one foot in symbols: the picture keeps the meaning concrete while the numeral starts the move toward written take-away, and the small totals let a kindergartner check every answer by counting.

The meaning stays concrete even as a symbol appears: the group is pictured and counted, and only the number taken away is written. That balance lets a kindergartner meet the numeral without losing the sense that subtraction makes a group of reptiles smaller. Small totals keep every answer something the child can verify by counting what is left.

Children who enjoy reptiles and amphibians settle into this quickly once crossing-out feels easy, and it suits a calm independent task. When this feels easy, take some away in subtract a number with shapes, or try subtract a number with trees. You can also browse every subtraction worksheet or the whole reptiles collection for kindergarten — each sheet prints cleanly in black and white or plays online for free.