Material name: Subtraction Strip Board – Montessori Subtraction Strip Board
Area: Mathematics
Purpose & developmental benefits:
The Subtraction Strip Board helps children practice subtraction within 10 (and beyond) by placing and removing number strips on the board. Children directly observe the process of “taking away” to find what remains, gaining a clear understanding of the nature of subtraction while reinforcing the relationship between addition and subtraction.
Skills children develop:
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Practice basic subtraction in a concrete, visual way
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Understand and memorize subtraction combinations
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Develop logical thinking and reasoning skills
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Strengthen concentration and precise hand movements
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Prepare for the Subtraction Snake Game and Subtraction Charts
Recommended age: 4.5–6 years old
Materials & components:
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Subtraction board with a printed number scale
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Number strips representing the values to be subtracted
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May include number cards or a recording pencil
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Made from durable wooden or rigid board materials in Montessori-standard colors
Use in the classroom / at home:
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The child places the total strip → removes the subtracted strip → reads the result
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Practice multiple subtraction combinations
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Individual work that supports self-correction
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A transition from bead manipulation to a more abstract representation of subtraction
