Year 4 Maths Lesson Plan: 4-Digit Addition and Subtraction
Free Year 4 maths lesson plan on adding and subtracting 4-digit numbers using the column method including exchanges. Differentiation and plenary included.
Learning objective
I can add and subtract numbers with up to 4 digits using the formal column method, including multiple exchanges.
Key vocabulary
- column method
- exchange
- estimate
- inverse
- regroup
Curriculum: National Curriculum 2014: Year 4 Mathematics — Number and operations
Starter (5-10 minutes)
Estimation challenge: pupils round each number in 3,847 + 2,176 to the nearest hundred and estimate the answer. Reveal the actual answer and discuss why estimation is useful as a check.
Main activity (35-40 minutes)
Model 3,847 + 2,176 in columns, drawing attention to two exchanges (ones to tens, tens to hundreds). Pupils complete a worked example with the teacher, then practise on a mixed worksheet of 4-digit additions and subtractions including multiple exchanges. Pose a multi-step word problem: 'A library had 4,238 books. They donated 1,567 to a partner school and bought 845 new books. How many do they now have?' Pupils show all working.
Differentiation
Support
Use base-10 or place-value counters alongside the column method. Limit to one exchange per calculation initially.
Core
Solve mixed 4-digit additions and subtractions involving up to two exchanges. Apply to one-step word problems.
Stretch
Solve missing-digit puzzles and multi-step word problems combining addition and subtraction with reasoning about why their answer is sensible.
Plenary (5-10 minutes)
Self-check: pupils use the inverse operation to verify one of their answers (e.g. for 3,847 + 2,176 = 6,023, check by 6,023 − 2,176 = 3,847). Discuss why this works.
Common misconception to watch for
When subtracting with multiple exchanges, pupils often forget to update the digit they exchanged from. Use coloured pens to highlight each exchange step.
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Generate this lesson freeFrequently asked questions
What is the learning objective of this Year 4 maths lesson?
I can add and subtract numbers with up to 4 digits using the formal column method, including multiple exchanges.
How long does this addition and subtraction (4-digit numbers) lesson take?
60 minutes, structured into a starter, main activity, and plenary. Differentiation guidance is included for support, core, and stretch learners.
Is this lesson plan free to download?
Yes. The full plan is free to read and adapt. You can also generate an editable, fully resourced version in TAyumira's free lesson planner — no credit card required.
Does this lesson cover the UK National Curriculum?
Yes. This plan aligns with National Curriculum 2014: Year 4 Mathematics — Number and operations.
Can I edit this lesson plan for my class?
Yes. Use this as a template and adapt to your class context. To save typing time, generate a customised version in TAyumira's free planner — your class size, ability range, and lesson length are factored in automatically.