← Back to Subtraction Word Problems

Subtraction Word Problems - Worksheet 8 - 1st Grade

Hard

Solve real-world subtraction problems (Hard)

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

About This Worksheet

This hard-level worksheet contains 12 problems designed for 1st Grade students practicing subtraction word problems. Hard worksheets feature challenging problems including multi-step questions, missing values, and real-world applications to push students further.

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: Tom has 15 cards. He gives 4 to Sam and 3 to Lily. How many does Tom have left?
Solution Steps:
  1. Tom gives away cards twice — subtract both amounts.
  2. First: 15 − 4 = 11.
  3. Then: 11 − 3 = 8.
  4. Tom has 8 cards left.
Answer: 8
Tip: For two-step problems, solve one step at a time. Write down your intermediate answer!
1
Tom has 11 cards. He gives 3 to Sam and 3 to Lily. How many does Tom have left?
2
Tom has 17 cards. He gives 3 to Sam and 11 to Lily. How many does Tom have left?
3
Jake has 14 marbles. He has 9 more than Mia. How many does Mia have?
4
Tom has 12 cards. He gives 7 to Sam and 2 to Lily. How many does Tom have left?
5
Jake has 11 marbles. He has 3 more than Mia. How many does Mia have?
6
Tom has 14 cards. He gives 7 to Sam and 3 to Lily. How many does Tom have left?
7
Tom has 12 cards. He gives 8 to Sam and 1 to Lily. How many does Tom have left?
8
Jake has 8 marbles. He has 6 more than Mia. How many does Mia have?
9
Jake has 9 marbles. He has 5 more than Mia. How many does Mia have?
10
Tom has 12 cards. He gives 8 to Sam and 1 to Lily. How many does Tom have left?
11
Tom has 18 cards. He gives 6 to Sam and 11 to Lily. How many does Tom have left?
12
Jake has 11 marbles. He has 5 more than Mia. How many does Mia have?

Answer Key

1. 52. 33. 54. 35. 86. 47. 38. 29. 410. 311. 112. 6

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I download this subtraction word problems - worksheet 8 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 12 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.