Addition and subtraction appear for the last time as a separate section in Year 5, showing the importance of being proficient with both by the end of the year. The statutory requirements concentrate on working with very large numbers, including over 4-digit numbers. Here is the full programme: Year 5 Addition and Subtraction Programme of Study Pupils should be taught to: •    add and subtract whole numbers with more than 4 digits, including using formal written methods (columnar addition and subtraction) •    add and subtract numbers mentally with increasingly large numbers •    use rounding to check answers to calculations and determine, in the context of a problem, levels of accuracy •    solve addition and subtraction multi-step problems in contexts, deciding which operations and methods to use and why. What’s new and comments The emphasis is very much on working with large numbers. Written methods include adding or subtracting two 5-digit numbers, or even larger numbers. It is important that children really understand the written method before going on to working with very large numbers. Of course, once the method has been thoroughly grasped it doesn't really matter how big the numbers are, it is just a matter of ploughing through the process. One of the keys to success with written methods of calculating is to have a sound understanding and knowledge of mental arithmetic and it is still important to practice mental arithmetic skills on a regular basis. When calculating mentally it is expected that children in Year 5 will be able to work out questions such as 12 462 – 10 162 in their heads. Of course, they will need plenty of practice with smaller numbers to develop the techniques to do this. Another important skill is to be able to estimate or approximate an answer 'in your head' and then checking the written answer with the estimate to see that it is sensible Also, when set out in rows addition can be checked by subtracting and subtraction can be checked by adding (adding the answer and bottom row to get the number on the top row). Addition and subtraction does not appear as a separate category in the Year 6 Programme of Study so it is assumed that by the end of year 5 all necessary methods have been fully learned. Go to Year 5 Addition Go to Year 5 Subtraction