The four operations
The four basic operations are addition (+), subtraction (−), multiplication (×) and division (÷). In Year 5 we use them with whole numbers up to 1 000 000.
Working carefully
Line up the digits by place value when you add or subtract, and start from the ones on the right. Remember to carry to the next place when a column adds up to ten or more, and to borrow when the top digit is too small to subtract. Neat, straight columns help you avoid mistakes.
Key idea
Addition and multiplication can be done in any order. Subtraction and division cannot — order matters.
Worked example
Work out 234 × 6. 6 × 4 = 24 (write 4, carry 2). 6 × 3 = 18, + 2 = 20 (write 0, carry 2). 6 × 2 = 12, + 2 = 14. So 234 × 6 = 1 404.
Remember
- Line up digits by place value.
- Carry when adding; borrow when subtracting.
- Check division by multiplying back.