Build Subtraction Skills with Printable Subtraction Math Mats!

While using these subtraction strategy work mats, kids will practice a variety of subtraction strategies. Use this teaching resource with your students to reinforce skills such as:

• Subtraction on a Number Line
• Number Bonds
• Fact Families
• Subtraction with Ten Frames

To support foundational learning, we recommend using math manipulatives, such as connecting cubes, alongside the work mats. For first grade students, subtraction is an abstract concept—concrete models help make it more accessible and meaningful.

Here’s how it works:

Students draw a fact card and begin by using connecting cubes to complete the first task in the work mat. Then, using a dry erase marker, they record their thinking directly on the mat. They repeat this process for each activity on the mat, building strong conceptual understanding through hands-on exploration and visual representation.

Using manipulatives in tandem with the mats helps students make critical connections between physical models and symbolic strategies—an essential step in developing lasting subtraction skills.

Different Levels for Different Students

These subtraction math mats are an excellent tool for differentiating instruction! We’ve created two versions of these mats.

• Set 1 includes two math mats for subtracting numbers up to ten
• Set 2 includes two math mats for subtracting numbers up to twenty. 

Download Your Subtraction Work Mats

This resource download includes printable math mats, a set of subtraction fact cards, and number circles for building number bonds. Use the dropdown arrow on the Download button to select your preferred format—choose between color or black-and-white, and pick either the editable Google Slides version or the easy-to-print PDF version.

Print and laminate each page for multiple use and easy cleaning.

This resource was created by Cassandra Friesen, a teacher in Colorado and Teach Starter Collaborator.

More Subtraction Practice for 1st Grade

The key to making subtraction stick with your students? Practice, practice, practice.

And don’t worry—you’re in luck! We’ve got more teacher favorites to help reinforce subtraction skills in fun and effective ways.

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