Word Problems Worksheet for Early Learners
Children ages 4-6 practice applying subtraction to real-life scenarios by reading short word problems and figuring out how many items remain after some are taken away, connecting basic subtraction facts to reading comprehension. Translating a written story into a subtraction problem is a more advanced skill than solving bare number sentences, since it requires understanding what the story is actually asking.
Part of the pack
Month 11: Learning & Development | Ages 5-6Curriculum
How to use this worksheet
Read the first word problem aloud together, identifying the starting number and how many are being taken away. Have your child use the pictures provided to count and cross out the amount being subtracted, helping them visualize the 'taking away' action. Have them write the answer in the solution box, then repeat this process for each remaining word problem, encouraging more independent reading as they gain confidence.
Materials needed
- Pencil
- Eraser
Extension activities
- •Create your own subtraction word problems using your child's toys or snacks.
- •Draw a picture representing one of the word problems and cross out the amount being subtracted.
- •Act out a subtraction story physically, removing real objects from a group to find the difference.
- •Take turns making up subtraction word problems for each other to solve.
Tips for parents and teachers
Encourage your child to read each problem aloud and identify what's being asked before jumping to counters, since translating the story into a math problem is the real skill being built. Use manipulatives like counters or small toys to help them physically act out the 'taking away' part of each problem. Keep it patient and low-pressure, since subtraction word problems are typically more challenging than addition ones at this age.
Written by
Hemsweta Jain · Teacher Cheena
MBA and Early Childhood Educator, teaching since 2014 · Founder of RaisoActive, Mumbai
Every RaisoActive worksheet is designed and checked by the founder before publishing.
Published · Last reviewed
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