This is a set of "inkblot" subtraction strategies that are much different from the cruddy old "drill & kill" worksheets with cutesy characters you probably are using. These activities engage your students in deep thinking about how subtraction works and the strategies we use to solve the column based subtraction algorithm. Do NOT use this if your kids prefer to do routine sorts of problems or they don't want to deepen their understanding of mathematics.

The goal here is to deepen conceptual understanding through the use of "ink blot" subtraction problems where certain numbers are missing. Students will learn to use a variety of strategies, including using the additive inverse and compensating into other place values due to regrouping/borrowing (I don't use the word "borrowing," because when you borrow something, you're suppose to give it back, but I'll cave to whatever you're saying to your students to get you to use this.)

There are 11 "group" problems as well as 5 worksheets with 12 random problems on each page.