What Are Subtraction Word Problems?
Subtraction word problems are math stories where we need to "take away" or "find the difference" between numbers.
They help us solve real-life questions like "How many cookies are left?" or "How much more does one thing cost than another?" Let's learn how to solve them step by step!
How to Solve Subtraction Word Problems
1️⃣ Read carefully - Understand what the problem is asking
2️⃣ Find the numbers - Identify which numbers to subtract
3️⃣ Solve it - Subtract the smaller number from the larger one
4️⃣ Check your answer - Does it make sense in the story?
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Apple Harvest
Emma picked 24 apples from her tree. She gave 15 apples to her friends. How many apples does Emma have left?
Numbers to subtract: 24 - 15
Solution:
Example 2: Toy Cars
Liam has 36 toy cars. He lost 18 of them at the park. How many toy cars does Liam have now?
Numbers to subtract: 36 - 18
Solution:
Parent Tips 🌟
- Use real objects like buttons or cereal to act out word problems - this makes subtraction visual and tangible.
- Encourage drawing - have your child sketch the problem (like 24 apples) and cross out the subtracted amount.
- Make it personal - create word problems using your child's toys or snacks to keep them engaged.