Adding and taking away games

Explore addition and subtraction across grades. Choose by skill and readiness; the grades are a starting point, and this collection does not cover a whole curriculum.

Each game explains the Common Core connection it supports, or identifies itself as supplemental practice. Schools may teach topics in a different sequence. Read how we choose games.

Grade 1: Number bonds to 10

A number bond is a pair of numbers that join together to make a total. The number bonds to 10 are 0 + 10, 1 + 9, 2 + 8, 3 + 7, 4 + 6 and 5 + 5, plus the same pairs the other way round. There are 11 ways to make 10 with whole numbers, starting at 0 + 10 and finishing at 10 + 0.

Supports part of Common Core 1.OA.C.6. This focused game does not cover the entire standard.

Common Core connection: 1.OA.C.6. This is focused practice for part of the standard.

Play Number bonds to 10 · Free printable

Grade 1: Adding and subtracting within 20

In the game, children balance the scales: they choose the number that makes both sides equal, such as 8 + ? = 15 or 9 + 6 = 10 + ?, which shows that = means “the same as”. The Quick quiz mixes four kinds of question: addition (8 + 5 = ?), subtraction (14 − 6 = ?), a missing first number (? + 4 = 11) and a calculation written the 'other way round' (7 = ? − 9). Seeing the equals sign in different positions teaches the important idea that = means 'is the same as', not 'here comes the answer'.

Supports part of Common Core 1.OA.C.6. This focused game does not cover the entire standard.

Common Core connection: 1.OA.C.6. This is focused practice for part of the standard.

Play Adding and subtracting within 20 · Free printable

Grade 2: Addition and subtraction facts to 20

This is a sprint game: children type as many answers as they can in 60 seconds. The questions include straightforward facts (9 + 6 = ?), subtractions (17 − 8 = ?) and missing number forms (? + 5 = 13). Regular short sprints are one of the best ways to build fluency, and the timer shows progress clearly.

Supports part of Common Core 2.OA.B.2. This focused game does not cover the entire standard.

Common Core connection: 2.OA.B.2. This is focused practice for part of the standard.

Play Addition and subtraction facts to 20 · Free printable