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Grade 2/Subtraction

Subtraction Word Problems - Basic Stories

Solve real-world subtraction problems with simple story contexts. Students practice reading comprehension and applying subtraction to everyday situations.
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Subtraction Word Problems - Comparison6 WS
The red car traveled 345 miles. The blue car traveled 289 miles. How many more miles did the red car travel?

Practice Questions

  1. Maya has 63 marbles. She lost 28 of them. How many marbles does Maya have now?
    Show answer

    35 marbles

  2. A library had 82 books on a shelf. Students borrowed 37 books. How many books are still on the shelf?
    Show answer

    45 books

  3. Jake scored 74 points in a game. His friend scored 49 points. How many more points did Jake score?
    Show answer

    25 points

  4. A farmer picked 156 apples. He sold 89 apples at the market. How many apples does he have left?
    Show answer

    67 apples

  5. There were 245 people at the park. Then 138 people left. How many people are still at the park?
    Show answer

    107 people

Teacher Resources
Lesson Plan

Understanding Subtraction Stories

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

Focus on helping learners identify keywords for subtraction and translate story contexts into mathematical equations. Encourage different strategies for solving, such as drawing models or using number lines.

Vocabulary
Subtract: To take away an amount from another.
Difference: The result of subtraction.
Common Mistakes
  • Misinterpreting keywords (e.g., 'altogether' vs. 'how many left').
  • Performing the incorrect operation (addition instead of subtraction).
  • Calculation errors after setting up the correct equation.
Differentiation
SupportUse manipulatives or draw pictures to visualize the problem.
ChallengeCreate their own story problems or solve multi-step problems.
Discussion Questions
  • What keywords helped you identify subtraction in the problem?
  • How can drawing a picture help you understand the story?
  • Can you think of a real-life situation where you would use subtraction?
  • What strategy did you use to solve the equation you wrote?
Extension Activities
  • Act out taking away toys.
  • Use counters to show subtraction.
  • Draw subtraction stories.
Parent Tip

Ask your child to tell you a story about taking away items.

Learning Path
Skill Cluster

Problem Solving & Operations

Grade Level

1-3

Skills Practiced
Solve subtraction word problemsIdentify total and partWrite subtraction equations