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Fifth/Subtraction

1-2 Digit Subtraction Word Problems

Practice solving simple subtraction word problems with 1-2 digit numbers.
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1-2 Digit Subtraction Word Problems preview

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What to Do Next
Subtraction Word Problems: Up to 3 Digits12 WS
If you have 123 candies and give away 45, how many are left?

Practice Questions

  1. If you have 8 apples and eat 3, how many are left?
    Show answer

    5

  2. There are 12 birds on a tree. 5 fly away. How many are left?
    Show answer

    7

  3. You have 15 candies and give 6 to a friend. How many do you have now?
    Show answer

    9

  4. A basket has 10 oranges. You take out 4. How many are left?
    Show answer

    6

  5. There are 20 pencils in a box. You use 8. How many are left?
    Show answer

    12

Teacher Resources
Standards
2.OA.A.1
Printable Aids
Keywords ChartCounters/Manipulatives
Teaching Notes

Guide students to identify keywords like 'left,' 'fewer,' or 'how many more' to determine subtraction. Encourage drawing pictures or using manipulatives to visualize the problem.

Vocabulary
Word Problem: A math problem described in words.
Subtraction: Taking away one quantity from another.
Common Mistakes
  • Choosing addition when keywords suggest subtraction (e.g., 'how many left').
  • Not reading the entire problem before solving.
  • Writing the subtraction sentence in the wrong order (e.g., smaller - bigger).
Differentiation
SupportProvide manipulatives or a number line. Highlight key numbers and phrases in the problem statement. Work through problems together step-by-step.
ChallengeIntroduce problems with extraneous information, asking students to identify what's needed. Challenge them to create their own subtraction word problems.
Discussion Questions
  • What clues in the problem tell us to use subtraction?
  • How can drawing a picture help you solve this word problem?
  • Can you explain your strategy for solving this problem to a partner?
Extension Activities
  • Write your own subtraction stories.
  • Solve addition word problems too.
  • Use pictures to solve problems.
Parent Tip

Act out a simple subtraction story with objects.

Learning Path
Skill Cluster

Problem Solving & Operations

Estimated Time

15 minutes

Skills Practiced
Word problem subtractionOne step word problemsProblem solving strategies