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If your students are struggling with subtraction, using the subtraction with regrouping number line strategy might be exactly what they need.
This visual method helps students break apart numbers into tens and ones, making the regrouping process easier to understand.
It gives them a way to “see” what’s happening when they subtract, rather than relying only on the traditional algorithm.
An open number line is a key tool I use when introducing 2-digit subtraction.
It builds strong number sense and provides an easy-to-follow structure that works well for many learners.
Why Teach Subtraction with Regrouping on a Number Line?
Standard 2.NBT.5 encourages using flexible strategies for 2-digit addition and subtraction, such as base ten blocks and the break apart strategy.
One of the most effective ways to meet this standard is through the subtraction with regrouping number line approach.
Rather than diving into the algorithm right away, I introduce a variety of visual strategies.
The subtraction with regrouping number line strategy is one of my students’ favorites because it helps them “see” the math happening.
The open number line works especially well for subtraction when students are still working on place value and understanding how to decompose numbers into tens and ones.
Keep reading for a step-by-step example of subtraction with regrouping using an open number line, plus a classroom-ready resource you can use for practice.
Subtraction with Regrouping Number Line: 2-Digit Strategy Example
Let’s solve this together:
To solve this using a subtraction with regrouping number line, start by drawing a blank number line.
This is called an open number line because it doesn’t have preset tick marks or numbers.
Step 1: Start with the minuend
Place 63 (the minuend) on the right side of your open number line.
Since you’re subtracting, you’ll be moving left.
Tip: Many students instinctively draw tick marks at the start – encourage them to skip that step and focus on clean jumps of tens and ones.
Step 2: Subtract the tens from the subtrahend
24 has two tens and four ones.
First jump: 63 – 10 = 53
Second jump: 53 – 10 = 43
Encourage students to write the number after each jump so they don’t get confused later.
It also helps them avoid common regrouping mistakes later.
Step 3: Subtract the ones
Now subtract the four ones:
You have now made two jumps of ten and four jumps of one.
Final answer: 63 – 24 = 39
This is a perfect example of how the subtraction with regrouping number line strategy makes each step visual and easy to follow.
Visual Tip for Your Students
To help my students stay on track, I use an airplane analogy:
Each time you subtract, it’s like the plane takes off from one airport and lands at the next.
They need to land (write the result) before they take off again.
This simple visual cue helps students keep track of each jump and avoid skipping steps when using a number line for subtraction with regrouping.
Different Ways to Use an Open Number Line
Every student solves problems a little differently – and that’s the beauty of the open number line strategy.
Some may subtract 20 in one jump instead of two jumps of 10.
Others may break apart numbers differently.
That flexibility makes it a great tool for differentiation.
You can model multiple methods, and students can choose what works best for them.
But before I show students how to subtract in larger chunks (like a jump of 30), I make sure they’re confident with tens and ones.
Want to Practice Subtraction with Regrouping Number Lines?
If you’re looking for structured practice pages that walk students through 2-digit subtraction using number lines, I have a ready-to-go set that’s perfect for math centers, small groups, or independent work.
Click the image below to grab the full subtraction with regrouping number line resource on TPT.
It includes guided examples, practice problems, and room for students to draw their own number lines.
This is one of my go-to resources for building confidence with 2-digit subtraction – and teachers who have used it say their students actually enjoy the practice!
Want to try this strategy with your students before committing to the full resource?
Download the free sample worksheets and see how it works in your classroom.
Need help or have questions?
If you need help or have questions, the easiest way to reach me is to DM me on Instagram @techieturtleteacher.
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