Subtraction Smash

This subtraction smash activity makes subtraction from 10 and 20 super fun and engaging!

This playful subtraction activity is yours when become a VIP Plato Pack Member!

Getting Ready

The prep for subtraction smash was super easy. First, I printed one smash mat for each station. (You can print them on colored paper for a fun pop!)

Then, to make the mats reusable, I laminated them. You can also choose to slide them through a page protector.

I printed the subtraction cards and cut along the edges to separate the pieces.

Then I placed a tub of playdough at each spot and printed out a record sheet for each student.

Note: this activity includes two versions of subtraction mats – one for subtracting within 10 and the other subtracting within 20.

Subtraction Smash Activity

Students flipped over one card at a time and used their playdough to solve the problem.

One student flipped over 10 – 9. She placed 10 playdough balls on the ten frame and smashed 9 of them, leaving only one in tact.

She then read the subtraction problem out loud. “10 minus 9 equals 1.” Then, since I was having my students record their answers on the answer sheet, she wrote down 10 – 9 = 1 on her page.

Students played until the time was finished.

Subtraction Activity Extension Idea

For children new to subtraction, give them the subtracting within 10 set.

For kids who are ready for more of a challenge, bring out the subtracting within 20 set for the extra stretch. You could even save the answer sheets for these students.

Join The Plato Pack

Excited to get your hands on this fun subtraction activity!? Hop over to become a Plato Pack member and join THE most valuable membership for pre-K, kindergarten and first grade teachers!

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