GRADE 1 · ALBERTAOUTCOME AB-G1-1N2
L5 · Subtraction word problems clinic
Learning goal
“I can read a story, find the two numbers, and subtract to solve.”
Left — how many stay after some go away.
How many more — the gap between two groups.
Take away — move some out of a group.
Worked example
"There are 15 ducks on a pond. 6 ducks fly away. How many ducks are on the pond now?" The story says "fly away," so ducks leave. Subtract: 15 - 6 = 9. There are 9 ducks now. Say it plainly: first find the two numbers. Then ask: does something go away, or do groups join?
Check yourself — explain it
The story says 'fly away,' so I...
Paired problem — example still visible
"Sara has 13 balloons. 5 balloons pop. How many balloons does Sara have now?" -> 13 - 5 = 8
Faded completion — last step is yours
"There are 17 apples in a box. Tom takes 8 apples out. 17 - 8 = ___" -> 9
Ready to practise?
8 scored questions with a 3-rung hint ladder. Mastery needs 7/8 plus both gate questions.