Guided Practice
Learn
In this lesson, we will practice adding and subtracting three-digit numbers step by step. You will work through problems with hints and guidance to build your confidence.
Review: The Standard Algorithm
When adding or subtracting large numbers, we use the standard algorithm:
- Line up the digits by place value (ones under ones, tens under tens, hundreds under hundreds)
- Start with the ones place and work left
- Regroup (carry or borrow) when needed
- Write your answer with digits in the correct places
Tips for Success
- Write neatly and keep columns straight
- Check your work by using the opposite operation
- Take your time with regrouping steps
Examples
Example 1: Addition with Regrouping
Problem: 347 + 285 = ?
Step 1: Add the ones: 7 + 5 = 12. Write 2, carry 1.
Step 2: Add the tens: 4 + 8 + 1 = 13. Write 3, carry 1.
Step 3: Add the hundreds: 3 + 2 + 1 = 6.
Answer: 632
Example 2: Subtraction with Regrouping
Problem: 524 - 168 = ?
Step 1: Subtract ones: 4 - 8? We need to borrow! Make it 14 - 8 = 6.
Step 2: Subtract tens: 1 - 6? Borrow again! Make it 11 - 6 = 5.
Step 3: Subtract hundreds: 4 - 1 = 3.
Answer: 356
Practice
Work through these problems. Use scratch paper to show your work.
1. 234 + 152 = ___
Hint: No regrouping needed! Add each column.
2. 456 + 278 = ___
Hint: You will need to regroup in the ones and tens places.
3. 389 + 247 = ___
Hint: 9 + 7 = 16. Write 6, carry 1.
4. 567 - 234 = ___
Hint: No borrowing needed! Subtract each column.
5. 742 - 385 = ___
Hint: Start with ones: 2 - 5. You need to borrow from tens.
6. 600 - 247 = ___
Hint: When borrowing from zeros, borrow across multiple places.
7. 483 + 299 = ___
Hint: Think of 299 as 300 - 1. Does that make it easier?
8. 815 - 479 = ___
Hint: You will need to borrow twice.
Check Your Understanding
Question 1: When do you need to regroup (carry) during addition?
Answer: When the sum of digits in a column is 10 or more.
Question 2: What should you do if you cannot subtract a larger digit from a smaller one?
Answer: Borrow 1 from the next column to the left, which adds 10 to your current column.
Question 3: How can you check if your answer to an addition problem is correct?
Answer: Use subtraction! Subtract one addend from your answer. You should get the other addend.
Question 4: What is 375 + 425?
Answer: 800
Next Steps
- Practice a few more problems without looking at the hints
- Try creating your own addition and subtraction problems
- Move on to Word Problems to apply these skills to real situations