
Bring the magic of winter to your classroom with this Winter Subtraction Within 20 Go Fish Math Resource! This is perfect for first and second graders. This math center game combines learning AND fun as students practice subtraction facts within 20.
*Check out the video at the bottom!
What Is It?
This Winter Go Fish Subtraction Activity is a seasonal twist on the classic card game. Instead of matching identical cards, students will search for pairs of subtraction problems and their corresponding answers. This engaging activity encourages critical thinking, strategy, and math fluency—all while having fun!
What’s Included?
- 40 Subtraction Cards: Each card features a subtraction problem with a matching card that has the same difference missing. For example: 20 – 10 = ? AND 15 – 10 = ? Both have a difference of 10 and so both would be a match! Each card is designed with adorable winter-themed illustrations.
- Instruction Sheet: Clear, easy-to-follow instructions for setting up and playing the game.
- Student-Friendly Rules Card: A handy reference to keep the game running smoothly.

How to Use:
- Shuffle the cards and deal 5 to each player. Place the remaining cards in a draw pile.
- Students take turns asking each other for specific subtraction problems or answers to complete their pairs.
- If the requested card is not available, the student “goes fishing” by drawing from the pile.
- The game continues until all pairs are matched. The player with the most pairs wins!
This activity can be used:
- In math centers
- For small group instruction
- As an early finisher activity
- During indoor recess
Why You’ll Love It
- Interactive Learning: Go Fish brings a social and competitive element to math practice, keeping students engaged.
- Skill Reinforcement: Students will build fluency in subtraction within 20 in a way that feels more like play than work.
- Low Prep: Print, cut, and you’re ready to go. Laminate the cards for long-lasting use.
- Versatile: Perfect for a variety of classroom settings and adaptable to different learning needs.
Why Your Students Will Love It
- The playful format makes math practice exciting and enjoyable.
- Winter-themed designs add a festive touch.
- The game encourages teamwork and communication while reinforcing essential math skills.
Looking for more Winter Go Fish Math Resources? Look no further! I have created a variety of Go Fish Math Centers, so that I could easily differentiate for the students in my classroom and now I am able to share them with you! <3
- Winter Go Fish Addition Within 10
- Winter Go Fish Addition Within 20
- Winter Addition Bundle
- Winter Go Fish Subtraction Within 10
- Winter Go Fish Subtraction Within 20
- Winter Subtraction Bundle
- Winter Go Fish Place Value Within 100
- Winter Go Fish Place Value Within 1,000
- Winter Go Fish Place Value Expanded Form Within 100
- Winter Go Fish Place Value Expanded Form Within 1,000
Don’t let subtraction practice feel like a chore! Add this Winter Go Fish Subtraction Activity to your classroom today and watch your students master subtraction with smiles on their faces.
Share your Go Fish fun with me! Tag @firstgradelodge and use #WinterMathGames to show how you’re making subtraction magical this season.
Check out the video below to see more!
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