How to Subtract by Comparing With Overlays

An interesting way to show subtraction as a comparison is to use manipulatives to demonstrate how much more one number is than another. Visual representations, particularly when working with the overlay method, can be especially helpful for students. Depending on the size or the sort of numbers you’re working with—whole numbers, fractions, or decimals—you can use a variety of concrete or digital manipulatives, such as base ten blocks, counters, linking cubes, 10-frames, fraction rectangle mats, hundredths grids, and so on. Find out more by watching this video, in which Marian demonstrates how to solve different subtraction problems by comparing with overlays.