Subtraction For Kids – Basic Word Problems

Let’s dive into the concept of subtraction and how to solve basic word problems for kids with examples.

What is Subtraction?

Subtraction is one of the basic operations in mathematics. It involves taking one number away from another. The number you start with is called the minuend, the number you are taking away is called the subtrahend, and the result is called the difference.

For example: 7−3=4 Here, 7 is the minuend, 3 is the subtrahend, and 4 is the difference.

Steps to Solve Subtraction Word Problems

1. Read the Problem Carefully: Understand what the problem is asking.
2. Identify the Numbers Involved: Determine which number you start with (minuend) and which number is being taken away (subtrahend).
3. Set Up the Subtraction Equation: Write the subtraction equation based on the information given.
4. Solve the Equation: Subtract the subtrahend from the minuend to find the difference.
5. Check Your Work: Make sure the answer makes sense in the context of the problem.

Example 1: Simple Subtraction

Problem: Emily had 10 apples. She gave 3 apples to her friend. How many apples does Emily have left?

1. Read the Problem: Emily had 10 apples and gave away 3 apples.
2. Identify the Numbers: Emily started with 10 apples (minuend) and gave away 3 apples (subtrahend).
3. Set Up the Equation: 10−3=?
4. Solve the Equation: 10−3=7
5. Check Your Work: Emily has 7 apples left, which makes sense.

Example 2: Subtraction with a Story

Problem: There were 15 birds on a tree. 7 birds flew away. How many birds are still on the tree?

1. Read the Problem: There were 15 birds and 7 flew away.
2. Identify the Numbers: Start with 15 birds (minuend) and 7 flew away (subtrahend).
3. Set Up the Equation: 15−7=?
4. Solve the Equation: 15−7=8
5. Check Your Work: There are 8 birds left on the tree, which makes sense.

Example 3: Subtraction in Daily Life

Problem: Sarah had 20 candies. She ate 5 candies. How many candies does Sarah have now?

1. Read the Problem: Sarah had 20 candies and ate 5.
2. Identify the Numbers: Start with 20 candies (minuend) and ate 5 (subtrahend).
3. Set Up the Equation: 20−5=?
4. Solve the Equation: 20−5=15
5. Check Your Work: Sarah has 15 candies left, which makes sense.

Example 4: Subtraction with Larger Numbers

Problem: A library had 50 books. 12 books were borrowed by students. How many books are left in the library?

1. Read the Problem: The library had 50 books and 12 were borrowed.
2. Identify the Numbers: Start with 50 books (minuend) and 12 borrowed (subtrahend).
3. Set Up the Equation: 50−12=?
4. Solve the Equation: 50 – 12 = 38
5. Check Your Work: There are 38 books left in the library, which makes sense.

Tips for Solving Subtraction Problems

• Use Visual Aids: Draw pictures or use objects like blocks to visualize the problem.
• Practice Regularly: Regular practice helps reinforce the concept.
• Check Your Work: Always go back and make sure your answer makes sense in the context of the problem.

Subtraction is a fundamental math skill that forms the basis for many more complex math concepts. By practicing with these examples, kids can build a strong foundation in understanding and solving subtraction word problems.