KS1 (Years 1–2) · Mathematics
Addition & Subtraction
What is it
At this stage, addition and subtraction means combining and taking away numbers up to 20 and beyond, using objects, pictures and increasingly, mental methods and simple written calculations.
Why it matters
These are the first operations a child ever learns, and confidence here shapes how they feel about maths for years to come. Every later topic — from times tables to algebra — assumes addition and subtraction are second nature.
Exam tip
Encourage counting on from the larger number rather than starting from one each time — it's a small habit that makes mental addition dramatically faster.
Related topics
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