- Definition
An inverse relationship means that two things do the opposite of each other. For example, adding 3 and subtracting 3 are inverse operations because one undoes the other.
Since 5 + 2 = 7, the inverse relationship means that 7 − 2 = 5.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: An inverse relationship is like zipping up your jacket and then unzipping it — one action undoes the other.
Ask your child: If we add 2 blocks to a tower, what takes those 2 blocks away?
Common mix-up: Kids may see addition and subtraction as separate topics. The key idea is that they are connected opposites that can be used to undo each other.
Examples
- Knowing that 10 − 4 = 6 also helps you know that 6 + 4 = 10.
- You can check your subtraction answer by using addition to 'undo' it.
inverse relationship is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
