Subtraction Word Problems (1-3 Digits)
Browse 6 free printable Subtraction Word Problems (1-3 Digits) worksheets for Grade 2 Math. These Word Problems worksheets are designed to give students targeted practice and build confidence in math.
Worksheets are available at multiple difficulty levels — Easy, Medium, and Hard — so you can meet every student where they are. Each worksheet is an instant PDF download: print as many copies as you need for your classroom, tutoring sessions, or home practice at no cost.
Whether you're a teacher looking for word problems practice problems, a homeschool parent building a Grade 2 curriculum, or a tutor helping a student catch up, these free printable worksheets are ready to use today.
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Practice Questions
- A warehouse had 145 boxes. 28 boxes were shipped. How many boxes remain?
Show answer
145 − 28 = 117. 117 boxes remain.
- There were 100 pencils in a drawer. 47 were taken for class. How many pencils are left?
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100 − 47 = 53. 53 pencils are left.
- A baker made 95 cookies. She sold 16. How many cookies are left?
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95 − 16 = 79. 79 cookies are left.
- A store had 72 notebooks. They sold 9. How many notebooks now?
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72 − 9 = 63. 63 notebooks now.
- There were 150 balloons. 75 flew away. How many balloons are left?
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150 − 75 = 75. 75 balloons are left.
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Quick Tip
Teacher Resources
Lesson Plan
Subtraction Stories for Grade 2
Standards
2.OA.A.1Printable Aids
Teaching Notes
Emphasize reading comprehension to identify key information and the action of subtraction. Model setting up equations from word problems, focusing on regrouping when necessary.
Vocabulary
Common Mistakes
- Misinterpreting 'take away' or 'difference' cues in the problem.
- Errors in regrouping, especially across zeros or multiple columns.
- Computational errors with basic subtraction facts within the larger problem.
Differentiation
Discussion Questions
- What words in a story often tell us we need to subtract?
- How can we check if our subtraction answer makes sense?
- When do we need to 'borrow' or regroup while solving a subtraction problem?
- Can you think of a real-life situation where you would use subtraction to solve a problem?
Extension Activities
- Write subtraction stories.
- Use a number line.
- Subtract larger numbers.
Parent Tip
Ask your child to create a subtraction story with 3-digit numbers.
Learning Path
Skill Cluster
Number Operations & Problem Solving
Grade Level
2