Deciding When to Add or Subtract Using Fruit

Khan Academy

This video explores the fundamental difference between addition and subtraction through a simple, visual example involving fruit. The narrator presents a scenario with five blueberries and three cherries, challenging viewers to determine whether they need to add or subtract to find the "total number of fruit." The video clearly distinguishes between the two operations by visually mapping them to physical actions—combining sets versus taking items away. Key themes include counting objects, understanding mathematical symbols (+ and -), and interpreting word problem vocabulary. The video visually demonstrates that addition is used for combining distinct groups to find a larger total sum (5 + 3 = 8), while subtraction is modeled as "taking away" or removing items from a starting group (5 - 3 = 2). This side-by-side comparison helps clarify when to apply each operation. For educators, this resource is an excellent tool for introducing early arithmetic concepts and problem-solving strategies. It helps students transition from concrete counting to abstract equations by explicitly visualizing the "why" behind the choice of operation. The clear comparison between "getting more" (addition) and "eating/taking away" (subtraction) provides a strong mental model for young learners beginning to solve one-step word problems.