Subtraction Strip Board
The Subtraction Strip Board provides a concrete, visual method for children to explore subtraction equations and discover mathematical patterns. Through hands-on manipulation of color-coded wooden strips on a numbered grid, children build a deep understanding of subtraction facts from 1-18 while developing concentration and mathematical reasoning skills.
“The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.”— Maria MontessoriEducation and Peace
The Subtraction Strip Board transforms abstract subtraction concepts into tangible experiences through color-coded wooden strips positioned on a numbered grid. Each strip's length physically represents a quantity, allowing children to see and touch the process of taking away. The grid's design from 1-18 enables systematic exploration of subtraction equations, while the wooden strips' varied lengths create visual patterns that reveal mathematical relationships. By manipulating these strips to solve equations, children internalize subtraction facts through repetition and discovery rather than memorization. The board's horizontal layout mirrors the left-to-right progression of mathematical notation, preparing children for written arithmetic. This material bridges the gap between concrete counting activities and abstract number operations, providing the sensorial foundation essential for mathematical abstraction in the elementary years.
Step by Step to Mastery
Always start with the minuend (first number) using blue strips
Red strips always represent the subtrahend (number being subtracted)
Point to each number while counting to reinforce one-to-one correspondence
Writing reinforces the visual discovery and builds equation literacy
Maintaining order in the strip boxes develops organizational skills
Always start with the minuend (first number) using blue strips
Red strips always represent the subtrahend (number being subtracted)
Point to each number while counting to reinforce one-to-one correspondence
Writing reinforces the visual discovery and builds equation literacy
Maintaining order in the strip boxes develops organizational skills
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
Trusted by
Schools Worldwide
Handcrafted
in Europe
AMI
Endorsed
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