Subtraction can be a difficult concept for children to grasp. It may seem simple to some that when something is “taken away” then there is something leftover, but what helps even more is having a visual! At least that’s the type of learner I am anyway! To visually see an object being removed or “taken away” definitely helps children understand the concept of subtraction. These adorable Bug Subtraction Cards are the perfect tool for children to practice subtraction!

*Pair them with our Subtraction Centers for more hands-on fun!

Bug Subtraction Cards

I would suggest using these Bug Subtraction Cards with K-1 students. You can use them as a stand-alone math center or pull kids for small group work.

I like to laminate the cards so they are more durable and last longer. It also gives children a chance to use dry erase markers, which always makes them extra excited to get down to work!

Let’s Get Started!

Simply print, laminate, and cut the cards apart. Include a basket of dry erase markers and an eraser.

You are all set to have a math activity where children can visually see each part of a subtraction math equation!

Working on Addition? Grab our Bug Addition Cards!

How to Use the Bug Subtraction Cards

Children will begin by counting the total number of spots on the bug. This is the number that goes in the first box of the math equation.

Once he/she has the starting point for the math equation, they will then count how many spots on the bug are crossed out.

This is the number that is being “taken away.” This number goes in the second box of the math equation.

To find the answer to the math equation, simply count how many spots are remaining on the bug.

The remaining number of spots on the bug is the number that is written in the final box of the math equation.

Tips for additional play

• Encourage children to use different colored dry erase markers for each part of the equation
• Work in pairs. Children take turns pulling a bug subtraction card from the basket and completing the equation.
• Partners “check” each other’s work. This helps with retention since we know that children retain more when learned from a peer.

Grab Your Copy

If you are ready to print these FREE Bug Subtraction Cards then click the yellow download button at the very bottom of the post. 

More Bug-Themed Fun

Looking for more bug activities? You will love the ones some of my favorite kid bloggers and I are sharing! Check them all out below.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

Ladybug Life Cycle Wheel // The STEM Laboratory

Bug Puzzles (Beginning Sounds) // Fairy Poppins

Bug Subtraction Cards // The Kindergarten Connection

Ladybug Editable Sight Word Puzzles // A Dab of Glue Will Do

Printable Ladybug Letter Puzzles and Sensory Bin // Fun-A-Day

Simple Outdoor Ant Experiment // Science Kiddo

Ladybug One More One Less Activity // Fantastic Fun and Learning

Bug Jar Addition and Subtraction Mats // Fun Learning for Kids

Counting Ants Math Game // Mrs. Jones’ Creation Station

Insect Theme Prewriting Practice // Stay at Home Educator

I Spy Bugs Sensory Bin // Teach Me Mommy

Insect Printable Sorting Worksheet // Fun with Mama

Bug Counting Clip Cards // Playdough to Plato

Ladybug Counting Cards 1-20 // Powerful Mothering

Butterfly Life Cycle Mini Book Freebie // The Primary Post

Homemade Butterfly Playdough Kit // Sugar Spice and Glitter

CVC Bug Matching Game // Sweet Sounds of Kindergarten

Bug Story Problems // Recipe for Teaching

Bugs: How Many Syllables? // Liz’s Early Learning Spot

Bug Theme Bingo Cards // Schooling a Monkey

Ten Frame Game More and Less // Sara J Creations

Buggy Partner Cards // Simplified Classroom

Get the Bug Subtraction Cards Below

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Mandy

MissMaesDays.com is the creation of Mandy Mae; wife, mother, teacher, and frugal-DIY-enthusiast. Hoping to inspire others to take action in making a positive influence in the lives of children with simple DIY, crafting, thrifting, and teaching projects, Mandy enjoys sharing both her successes and hiccups with easy-to-follow tips & tutorials.

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