Subtraction Word Problems - Worksheet 5 - 1st Grade

Medium

Solve real-world subtraction problems (Medium)

10 problems · 15-20 minutes · Skills: subtraction, reading comprehension, problem solving

About This Worksheet

This medium-level worksheet contains 10 problems designed for 1st Grade students practicing subtraction word problems. Medium worksheets introduce larger numbers and varied question formats to deepen understanding and build fluency.

Subtraction word problems teach children to apply math to everyday situations, building both reading comprehension and problem-solving skills.

  • Read and solve subtraction word problems
  • Identify key words like "left," "fewer," and "gave away"
  • Solve multi-step subtraction problems
  • Draw a model or diagram to represent the problem
  • Write a subtraction equation that matches the word problem

How to Solve: Worked Example

Example Problem: 12 balloons. 5 popped. How many are left?
Solution Steps:
  1. Start with 12 balloons.
  2. "Popped" means they're gone — subtract: 12 − 5.
  3. 12 − 5 = 7. There are 7 balloons left.
Answer: 7
Tip: Draw a picture of the problem to help you decide if you should add or subtract.
1
There are 5 birds. 1 fly away. How many remain?
2
6 balloons. 3 popped. How many are left?
3
Mom baked 7 muffins. The family ate 1. How many left?
4
There are 11 birds. 9 fly away. How many remain?
5
8 balloons. 3 popped. How many are left?
6
Mom baked 8 muffins. The family ate 4. How many left?
7
There are 5 birds. 4 fly away. How many remain?
8
6 balloons. 5 popped. How many are left?
9
Mom baked 8 muffins. The family ate 2. How many left?
10
There are 7 birds. 4 fly away. How many remain?

Answer Key

1. 42. 33. 64. 25. 56. 47. 18. 19. 610. 3

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I download this subtraction word problems - worksheet 5 worksheet?

Click the "Download PDF / Print" button at the top of the worksheet. You can save it as a PDF or print it directly. The answer key will be on a separate page.

How do I find worksheets at different difficulty levels?

Each subtopic has 10 worksheets: Worksheets 1-3 are Easy, 4-7 are Medium, and 8-10 are Hard. Start with Easy worksheets to build confidence, then progress to harder ones.

What skills does this subtraction worksheet cover?

This worksheet focuses on subtraction, reading comprehension, problem solving. It is designed for 1st Grade students and provides structured practice through varied problem types with a worked example to guide students before they begin.

Can I use this worksheet in my classroom?

Yes. All worksheets on K12Worksheets are free for classroom use. You can print copies for your entire class. With 10 worksheets per subtopic at three difficulty levels, you have plenty of options for differentiated instruction and individualized practice.

How many problems are on this worksheet?

This worksheet contains 10 problems. It typically takes 15-20 minutes to complete. An answer key with all solutions is included so parents and teachers can check work quickly.