• Doubles are pairs of numbers that are the same (e.g., 4 + 4, 6 + 6).
  • Start with the total and subtract one of the equal numbers.
    Example: If 6 + 6 = 12, then 12 – 6 = 6.
  • Use everyday situations such as sharing objects equally (e.g., “If you have 8 apples and take away 4, you have 4 left”).
  • Highlight patterns in subtracting doubles (e.g., the result is always the same as one of the original numbers).
  • Encourage memorization of simple doubles subtraction facts to build mental math skills.
    Example: “12 – 6 = 6, 8 – 4 = 4”.
  • Emphasize the relationship between addition and subtraction (if 5 + 5 = 10, then 10 – 5 = 5).

Look at the subtraction number sentence.

6 – 3 = ?

Think of the related addition number sentence. It uses the same numbers.

3 + ? = 6

The doubles addition fact for 3s shows the missing number. It is 3.

3 + 3 = 6

So:

6 – 3 = 3

Look at the subtraction number sentence.

4–2=?

Think of the related addition number sentence. It uses the same numbers.

2+?=4

The doubles addition fact for 2s shows the missing number. It is 2.

2+2=

So:

4–2=2

Look at the subtraction number sentence.

10–5=?

Think of the related addition number sentence. It uses the same numbers.

5+?=10

The doubles addition fact for 5s shows the missing number. It is 5.

5+5=10

So:

10–5=5