Subtraction Strategies Worksheet

Name:

Date:

📚 Part 1: Multiple Choice

WALT: Use subtraction strategies to find how many are left.

Success criteria: I can use counting back, part–part–whole or partitioning to solve subtraction problems and choose the correct operation.

1. What is 7 − 3?

2. What is 15 − 7?

3. Which strategy would help most to solve 32 − 15?

Count back on a number line

Partition into tens and ones

Multiply then subtract

4. Sam had $12. He gave $5 to a friend. How much money does he have now?

$17

✏️ Part 2: Short Answers & Strategies

5. Solve and show your working: 18 − 9 = _______

6. Write a subtraction number sentence and answer:

There were 45 marbles. Tom gives away 20. How many marbles are left?

7. Draw a bar model to show 12 − 4. Label the parts and the difference.

8. Year 2 challenge: Use tens and ones to solve. Show your partitioning and explain your strategy.

64 − 27 = _______

9. Choose whether to add or subtract:

Lily had 8 apples. She picks 6 more apples. Do we add or subtract?

Add

Subtract

Differentiation & supports: Use counters or an interactive app for hands-on modelling (small group). Year 1 students: use numbers within 20 and manipulatives. Year 2 students: try partitioning and explain reasoning. Students with ADHD or ASD: clear step prompts, short tasks and brain breaks as needed.