Word Problems Worksheet: Practice Subtraction with Fun Pictures!
This subtraction word problem worksheet gives children ages 4-6 practice translating a short story into a math equation, using pictures of objects being taken away to make the abstract idea of subtraction concrete. Reading, counting, and subtracting in sequence builds the same problem-solving pathway children will rely on for more advanced word problems later in school. Visual supports, like crossed-out or removed objects in the pictures, help children see subtraction as an action rather than just a symbol.
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Month 10: Learning & Development | Ages 5-6
This is page 17 of the pack. Ages 5-6 · KindergartenAges 5-6 · Year 1Ages 5-6 · UKGAges 5-6
Made for your child
Taking away within 10, made for your child
A maths pack with your child's name in it: pictures that explain, practice at three levels, puzzles and story sums about them. Print a new set whenever they finish.
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Curriculum
- Subtraction > Subtraction Word Problems
How to use this worksheet
Read each word problem together, paying attention to how many objects start out and how many are taken away. Have your child count the starting group and write that number in the first box. Guide them to subtract the number being removed, using the picture as a visual aid, and write the difference in the answer box. Review the completed equation together, checking that the picture and the numbers tell the same story.
Materials needed
- Pencil
- Eraser
Extension activities
- 1Create your own subtraction word problems using drawings of familiar objects.
- 2Use real objects, like toys or snacks, to act out the word problems by physically removing items.
- 3Play a simple subtraction game with dice, subtracting the smaller roll from the larger one.
- 4Draw a comic strip showing a subtraction story from start to finish.
- 5Practice counting backward from ten to reinforce the subtraction concept.
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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