Bring mathematical reasoning and creativity together in one fun activity! The Friendly Numbers with Compensation Subtraction Emoji Code Creator Worksheets offer students a unique and engaging way to practise the compensation strategy while applying their understanding of subtraction and place value. With a fun twist involving mystery codes and emojis, this resource helps students develop mental computation strategies in a meaningful and playful context.

Each worksheet requires students to design subtraction problems for a partner to solve using the compensation method with friendly numbers. Students round the minuend (the first number) to the nearest ten to make the subtraction easier, then adjust the answer accordingly to account for the change – reinforcing flexibility with mental strategies. This encourages learners to think critically about number relationships, rounding, and problem-solving.

Once the partner solves the problems using compensation, they refer to a code table that connects specific answers to emoji traits (e.g. eye shape, mouth, accessories). When all calculations are completed, the answers lead to a fully decoded emoji, which the solver must draw. It’s a fantastic way to integrate mathematical thinking with a creative and collaborative challenge!

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Apply the compensation strategy to solve subtraction problems using friendly numbers
• ✅ Round numbers to the nearest ten as part of mental calculation
• ✅ Develop and solve subtraction problems collaboratively
• ✅ Strengthen understanding of place value and mental computation
• ✅ Engage in mathematical reasoning and creativity through code interpretation

What’s Included

• Three differentiated worksheets targeting various ability levels:
• • Two-digit by one-digit subtraction problems
• • Two-digit by two-digit subtraction problems
• • Three-digit by two-digit subtraction problems
• Emoji code tables for students to use when decoding answers
• Instructions for both problem creators and solvers
• Space for final emoji drawing based on the code

Materials Needed

• Printed copies of the worksheet (one per student or per pair)
• Pencils, coloured markers, or highlighters for solving and decoding
• Optional: whiteboards and markers for students to plan their calculations before writing final versions

How to Use

1. Assign or allow students to choose the appropriate worksheet based on their current subtraction level.
2. Students create a series of subtraction problems for a partner to solve using compensation with friendly numbers.
3. The partner rounds the first number in each equation to a friendly ten, subtracts, then compensates by adjusting the result.
4. Once all problems are solved, the solver uses the matching answers to unlock emoji features using the code table.
5. Students draw the resulting emoji in the space provided, using the decoded features from their answers.
6. Partners can switch roles to complete the activity again from the opposite side.

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Use during your subtraction or mental computation unit to reinforce compensation strategies.
• 💡 Add to your rotations or maths stations for a peer-supported activity that blends creativity with computation.
• 💡 Introduce the activity whole-class using an interactive whiteboard to model how to decode an emoji together.
• 💡 Turn it into a class challenge – who can create the most accurate or funniest emoji using the code?
• 💡 Use as a fast-finisher task or enrichment for confident students exploring mental maths.

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Revisit the concept of rounding and compensating before starting this task – provide examples on anchor charts.
• 💛 Pair students thoughtfully to balance support and challenge in their problem-solving partnerships.
• 💛 Laminate copies of the emoji code tables for durability and repeated use across different sessions.
• 💛 Encourage students to explain their thinking aloud or write down how they applied compensation for each problem.
• 💛 Collect finished emoji drawings to create a classroom display showcasing mathematical creativity!

With a balance of strategy, fun, and visual creativity, the Friendly Numbers with Compensation Subtraction Emoji Code Creator Worksheets transform subtraction practice into a playful, problem-solving adventure your students will love!