Subtraction Word Problems

(2-step word problems)

Here are some examples of subtraction word problems that can be solved in two steps. We will illustrate how block diagrams can be used to help you to visualize the subtraction word problems in terms of the information given and the data that needs to be found.

Example:

A sports club had 2564 members. 130 members left the club after a year. How many new members should the club recruit in order to have 3000 members?

Solution:

Step 1: Find the number of members the club had after a year.

2564 – 130 = 2434

After 1 year, the club had 2434 members.

Step 2: Find how many new members the club should recruit.

3000 – 2434 = 566

The club should recruit 566 new members.

Example:

Henry bought a shirt and a tie. The shirt costs $187 and the tie costs $45 less than the shirt. Find the change that Henry received, if he paid $200 for the tie.

Solution:

Step 1: Find the cost of the tie.

187 – 45 = 142

Henry paid $142 for the tie.

Step 2: Find the change received.

200 – 142 = 58

He received $58 in change.

The following video shows more examples of subtraction word problems.

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