L3 4-Digit Column Subtraction, no exchanges

This Year 4 Autumn Term Addition and Subtraction lesson plan provides a complete, structured resource for teaching formal columnar subtraction of four-digit numbers without exchanges. The lesson begins with a recap of essential place value learning from Year 3 and Year 4, using missing-number subtraction questions and visual representations to deepen pupils’ understanding. These early activities help address misconceptions and prepare children for the written method. Using animated teaching slides, the lesson models how to subtract four-digit numbers accurately, emphasising correct digit alignment and the importance of subtracting columns in the correct order. The plan includes a worked example using a place value chart, followed by practice examples without the chart to guide pupils towards independence. Whiteboard activities—both individual and paired—provide meaningful assessment opportunities before moving into independent work. For the practical task, children select cut-up question cards and solve each subtraction using the formal column method, recording their solutions neatly in their maths books. Optional place value counters and base-10 equipment offer support for learners who benefit from concrete resources. The plenary revisits the core learning, prompting children to identify which column to subtract first and solve a missing-number challenge collaboratively. The planning also includes key questions, assessment guidance, and likely misconceptions such as misalignment of digits, subtracting from the wrong column, or errors arising from weak mental subtraction skills. Aligned directly to the National Curriculum objective to add and subtract numbers with up to four digits using formal written methods, this lesson provides a clear and secure foundation for progressing to subtraction with exchanges.