Shark Learning
Grade 3/Subtraction

Subtraction Word Problems - Multi-Step

Solve complex problems requiring multiple subtraction steps. Students develop critical thinking by breaking down problems into smaller parts.
6
Sheets
1871
Views
272
Downloads
Study Guide

Preview

Subtraction Word Problems - Multi-Step preview

Tap to open PDF

#WorksheetQuestionsActions
Easy
1
6 questions
2
6 questions
Medium
1
6 questions
2
6 questions
Hard
1
6 questions
2
6 questions

Practice Questions

  1. A store had 500 pencils. They sold 125 pencils on Monday and 89 pencils on Tuesday. How many pencils are left?
    Show answer

    286 pencils

  2. Lisa had 340 dollars. She spent 85 dollars on shoes and 67 dollars on a jacket. How much money does she have left?
    Show answer

    188 dollars

  3. A parking lot has 600 spaces. In the morning, 234 cars parked. By noon, 156 more cars arrived. How many empty spaces are there?
    Show answer

    210 spaces

  4. The school has 1,000 students. 425 students are in elementary, and 318 are in middle school. How many are in high school?
    Show answer

    257 students

  5. A baker made 850 cupcakes. He sold 276 in the morning, 185 in the afternoon, and 142 in the evening. How many cupcakes are left?
    Show answer

    247 cupcakes

Teacher Resources
Lesson Plan

Understanding Subtraction Stories

Standards
1.OA.A.1
Printable Aids
Story Problem TemplateCounters
Teaching Notes

Guide students to identify all quantities and actions within the problem. Encourage them to represent each step mathematically before finding the final answer.

Vocabulary
Multi-step: A problem requiring more than one calculation.
Sequence: The order in which events happen.
Common Mistakes
  • Missing a step or operation within the problem.
  • Incorrectly identifying the order of operations.
  • Computation errors in one or more subtraction steps.
Differentiation
SupportUse manipulatives; draw out each step visually.
ChallengeCreate own multi-step problems; include extraneous information.
Discussion Questions
  • What clues tell you this problem has more than one step?
  • How do you decide which step to solve first?
  • What strategy helps keep your work organized?
  • Can you explain your thought process for solving this problem?
Extension Activities
  • Plan a party with multiple steps.
  • Follow a recipe with steps.
  • Map out a route with turns.
Parent Tip

Create a simple two-step problem using everyday activities like chores or shopping.

Learning Path
Skill Cluster

Problem Solving

Grade Level

1-3

Skills Practiced
Solve multi step word problemsPerform sequential calculationsApply order of operations