Missing Subtrahend Worksheets Grade 4

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In Grade 4 math, students learn subtraction in different ways. One common method is solving problems where a number in the subtraction equation is missing. This missing number is called the subtrahend.

A subtrahend is the number that is subtracted from the minuend to get the difference. For example:

45 – ___ = 20

Here, 45 is the minuend, the missing number is the subtrahend, and 20 is the difference.

Using missing subtrahend worksheets helps students practice solving such equations in a fun and structured way.

Understanding the Concept of Missing Subtrahend

What Is a Missing Subtrahend?

A subtraction equation follows this format:

text{Minuend} – text{Subtrahend} = text{Difference}

When the subtrahend is missing, students must use addition to find it:

text{Minuend} – ? = text{Difference}

To find the missing number:

text{Minuend} – text{Difference} = text{Subtrahend}

For example:

72 – ___ = 25

To solve:

72 – 25 = 47

So, the missing subtrahend is 47.

How to Solve Missing Subtrahend Problems

Step-by-Step Method

  1. Identify the given numbers in the subtraction equation.
  2. Use addition or subtraction to determine the missing number.
  3. Check your answer by plugging it back into the equation.

Examples of Missing Subtrahend Problems

Example 1

80 – ___ = 30

Solution:

80 – 30 = 50

The missing subtrahend is 50.

Example 2

95 – ___ = 60

Solution:

95 – 60 = 35

The missing subtrahend is 35.

Example 3

___ – 18 = 42

Solution:

Since the subtrahend is not missing but the minuend is, we add the difference and the subtrahend:

42 + 18 = 60

So, the minuend is 60.

Types of Missing Subtrahend Worksheets for Grade 4

1. Basic Missing Subtrahend Problems

  • Simple two-digit subtraction problems
  • No regrouping required

Example:

56 – ___ = 24

2. Missing Subtrahend with Regrouping

  • More challenging problems requiring borrowing
  • Encourages students to practice subtraction with regrouping

Example:

92 – ___ = 37

3. Word Problems with Missing Subtrahend

  • Real-world situations where students need to identify the missing number
  • Helps with critical thinking skills

Example:
Lily had some apples. She gave 23 apples to her friend and now has 45 apples left. How many apples did she have originally?

Solution:

___ – 23 = 45
45 + 23 = 68

So, she originally had 68 apples.

4. Multiple Choice Worksheets

  • Students select the correct missing subtrahend from given options
  • Encourages quick problem-solving

Example:

65 – ___ = 28

Options:

  1. 37
  2. 45
  3. 28
  4. 20

Correct Answer: 37

Benefits of Using Missing Subtrahend Worksheets

  • Improves subtraction skills
  • Enhances problem-solving abilities
  • Builds confidence in math
  • Makes learning interactive and fun

Missing subtrahend worksheets for Grade 4 are a great way to strengthen subtraction skills. By practicing different types of problems—basic equations, regrouping, word problems, and multiple-choice questions—students develop a strong understanding of subtraction. With regular practice, they will become more confident in solving math problems quickly and accurately.