Simple Picture Subtraction Worksheets in Grade 1 - Mathematics - Exercises with solutions

Master simple picture subtraction: visual counting, object removal, basic subtraction concepts through these 10 detailed exercises.

Solutions: Exercises 1 to 10
1 Counting Objects
Exercise 1
If you have 5 🍎 and you eat 2 🍎, how many 🍎 do you have left?
Difficulty: Easy Time: ~2 minutes Skills: Visual Counting
Definition:

Picture subtraction: Using visual objects to understand subtraction as "taking away" or "removing" items from a group.

Note: This helps children visualize subtraction as removing objects from a collection, making abstract concepts concrete.

Step-by-step counting method:
  1. Count the total number of objects initially present
  2. Count how many objects are being removed
  3. Count the remaining objects to find the answer
🍎
🍎
🍎
🍎
🍎
-
🍎
🍎
=
3
Step 1: Count initial objects

We start with 5 apples: 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎

Step 2: Remove specified number

We eat 2 apples, so we cross out 2: 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎

Step 3: Count remaining objects

We count the remaining apples: 🍎 🍎 🍎 = 3 apples

5 - 2 = 3
Final answer:

You have 3 apples left.

Applied rules:

• Subtraction concept: Taking away reduces the total count

• Visual counting: Use pictures to represent numbers

• One-to-one correspondence: Each picture represents one object

• Practice Tip: Always count the starting amount first, then count what's taken away

Related Examples:
  • 4 - 1 = 3 (start with 4, remove 1)
  • 6 - 3 = 3 (start with 6, remove 3)
  • 7 - 4 = 3 (start with 7, remove 4)
Quick Tips:
  • Always start by counting the total number of objects
  • Cross out or circle the objects being taken away
  • Count the remaining objects carefully
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use my fingers to help count?
A: Yes! Using fingers or physical objects helps visualize the subtraction process.

Q: What if I have more objects to remove than I started with?
A: That's not possible in basic subtraction. The number being removed must be equal to or less than the starting amount.

2 Removing Apples
Exercise 2
There are 7 🍎 on the tree. 3 🍎 fall off. How many 🍎 are still on the tree?
Difficulty: Easy Time: ~2 minutes Skills: Visual Subtraction
Definition:

Object removal: Taking away a specific number of items from a group to find what remains.

Note: This reinforces the concept that subtraction means reducing the total quantity by removing items.

Step-by-step removal method:
  1. Count the initial number of objects
  2. Mark or remove the specified number
  3. Count what remains after removal
🍎
🍎
🍎
🍎
🍎
🍎
🍎
-
🍎
🍎
🍎
=
4
Step 1: Count initial apples

There are 7 apples on the tree: 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎

Step 2: Mark fallen apples

3 apples fall off, so we mark them: 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎

Step 3: Count remaining apples

We count the apples still on the tree: 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 = 4 apples

7 - 3 = 4
Final answer:

There are 4 apples still on the tree.

Applied rules:

• Removal concept: Subtraction represents taking away items

• Counting strategy: Keep track of what remains after removal

• Verification: Add the removed and remaining amounts to check

• Practice Tip: Draw circles around objects being removed to visualize the process

Related Examples:
  • 8 - 2 = 6 (start with 8, remove 2)
  • 9 - 5 = 4 (start with 9, remove 5)
  • 10 - 7 = 3 (start with 10, remove 7)
Quick Tips:
  • Draw the objects if they're not provided in the worksheet
  • Use different colors to mark objects being removed
  • Always verify your answer by adding the removed and remaining amounts
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What if I remove more than I have?
A: You cannot remove more objects than you started with. Subtraction only works when the number being removed is equal to or less than the starting amount.

Q: Can I remove objects randomly?
A: No, remove the exact number specified in the problem. The order doesn't matter, but the count does.

3 Banana Subtraction
Exercise 3
You have 6 🍌 and give 4 🍌 to your friend. How many 🍌 do you have now?
Difficulty: Easy Time: ~2 minutes Skills: Sharing Concept
Definition:

Sharing concept: Subtraction can represent giving away or sharing objects with others.

Note: This connects subtraction to real-life scenarios children encounter, making the concept more relatable.

Step-by-step sharing method:
  1. Count the initial number of objects you possess
  2. Count how many you give away
  3. Count what remains after sharing
🍌
🍌
🍌
🍌
🍌
🍌
-
🍌
🍌
🍌
🍌
=
2
Step 1: Count initial bananas

You start with 6 bananas: 🍌 🍌 🍌 🍌 🍌 🍌

Step 2: Mark given bananas

You give 4 bananas to your friend: 🍌 🍌 🍌 🍌 🍌 🍌

Step 3: Count remaining bananas

You count what you still have: 🍌 🍌 = 2 bananas

6 - 4 = 2
Final answer:

You have 2 bananas now.

Applied rules:

• Sharing concept: Giving away reduces your total

• Subtraction principle: Taking away decreases the amount

• Counting verification: Check by ensuring removed + remaining = original

• Practice Tip: Think of subtraction as "what's left after I give some away"

Related Examples:
  • 5 - 3 = 2 (start with 5, give 3)
  • 8 - 6 = 2 (start with 8, give 6)
  • 9 - 7 = 2 (start with 9, give 7)
Quick Tips:
  • Think of subtraction as sharing or giving away
  • Always keep track of what you started with
  • Count carefully to avoid miscounting
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Does giving away always mean subtraction?
A: Yes, when you give away objects, you're performing subtraction because your total decreases.

Q: What if I give away more than I have?
A: You cannot give away more than you possess. In real life, this would mean borrowing or asking for more.

Solutions: Exercises 4 to 5
4 Orange Removal
Exercise 4
There are 8 🟠 in the basket. You take 5 🟠 out. How many 🟠 are left in the basket?
Definition:

Object removal: Taking items out of a container or group, leaving fewer behind.

Note: This scenario helps children understand subtraction as removing items from a collection.

Step-by-step removal method:
  1. Count the total number of objects in the container
  2. Remove the specified number of objects
  3. Count what remains in the container
🟠
🟠
🟠
🟠
🟠
🟠
🟠
🟠
-
🟠
🟠
🟠
🟠
🟠
=
3
Step 1: Count initial oranges

There are 8 oranges in the basket: 🟠 🟠 🟠 🟠 🟠 🟠 🟠 🟠

Step 2: Mark removed oranges

You take out 5 oranges: 🟠 🟠 🟠 🟠 🟠 🟠 🟠 🟠

Step 3: Count remaining oranges

We count what's left in the basket: 🟠 🟠 🟠 = 3 oranges

8 - 5 = 3
Final answer:

There are 3 oranges left in the basket.

Applied rules:

• Container concept: Objects are held in a specific location

• Removal process: Taking out reduces the total count

• Verification: Check that removed + remaining equals original

• Practice Tip: Use containers like baskets, boxes, or bags to visualize grouping

Related Examples:
  • 7 - 4 = 3 (start with 7, remove 4)
  • 9 - 6 = 3 (start with 9, remove 6)
  • 10 - 8 = 2 (start with 10, remove 8)
Quick Tips:
  • Imagine the container as a place where objects live
  • Removing objects makes the container less full
  • Always count carefully to ensure accuracy
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What if I put objects back in?
A: Adding objects back would be addition, not subtraction. Subtraction is only when we take away.

Q: Can I remove more than I have?
A: No, you can only remove up to the number you originally had. In real life, you'd need to get more objects first.

5 Grape Counting
Exercise 5
A bunch has 10 🍇. You eat 7 🍇. How many 🍇 are left on the bunch?
Definition:

Consumption subtraction: Using subtraction to represent eating or consuming objects from a group.

Note: This connects subtraction to everyday activities like eating, making it relevant to children's experiences.

Step-by-step consumption method:
  1. Count the total number of objects available
  2. Count how many are consumed
  3. Count what remains after consumption
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
-
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
🍇
=
3
Step 1: Count initial grapes

The bunch starts with 10 grapes: 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇

Step 2: Mark eaten grapes

You eat 7 grapes: 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇

Step 3: Count remaining grapes

We count what's left on the bunch: 🍇 🍇 🍇 = 3 grapes

10 - 7 = 3
Final answer:

There are 3 grapes left on the bunch.

Applied rules:

• Consumption concept: Eating reduces the total amount

• Counting strategy: Keep track of what remains after consumption

• Verification: Ensure removed + remaining equals original count

• Practice Tip: Relate subtraction to familiar activities like eating snacks

Related Examples:
  • 6 - 4 = 2 (start with 6, eat 4)
  • 8 - 5 = 3 (start with 8, eat 5)
  • 9 - 6 = 3 (start with 9, eat 6)
Quick Tips:
  • Connect subtraction to eating, drinking, or using up items
  • Remember that consumption reduces the total count
  • Count carefully to avoid miscounting remaining items
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I eat more than I have?
A: No, you can only consume up to what you originally possessed. You'd need to get more first.

Q: What if I want to share and eat?
A: You can perform multiple subtractions: first subtract what you give away, then subtract what you eat.

Solutions: Exercises 6 to 10
6 Carrot Subtraction
Exercise 6
You have 9 🥕 in your garden. You pick 6 🥕 to eat. How many 🥕 are still in the garden?
Definition:

Garden harvesting: Using subtraction to represent picking or harvesting objects from a location.

Note: This connects subtraction to gardening and farming activities, making it relevant to real-world contexts.

Step-by-step harvesting method:
  1. Count the total number of objects in the location
  2. Count how many are harvested or picked
  3. Count what remains in the location
🥕
🥕
🥕
🥕
🥕
🥕
🥕
🥕
🥕
-
🥕
🥕
🥕
🥕
🥕
🥕
=
3
Step 1: Count initial carrots

You have 9 carrots in your garden: 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕

Step 2: Mark harvested carrots

You pick 6 carrots: 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕

Step 3: Count remaining carrots

We count what's still in the garden: 🥕 🥕 🥕 = 3 carrots

9 - 6 = 3
Final answer:

There are 3 carrots still in the garden.

Applied rules:

• Harvesting concept: Picking reduces the total count in the location

• Location awareness: Track where objects are located

• Counting verification: Check that harvested + remaining equals original

• Practice Tip: Think of subtraction as "what stays behind" after taking some away

Related Examples:
  • 7 - 3 = 4 (start with 7, harvest 3)
  • 8 - 5 = 3 (start with 8, harvest 5)
  • 10 - 8 = 2 (start with 10, harvest 8)
Quick Tips:
  • Think of locations where objects might be stored or grown
  • Remember that taking from a location reduces what's left there
  • Always verify your answer by adding the taken and remaining amounts
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What if I harvest more than I have?
A: You can only harvest up to what you originally possessed. You'd need to plant more first.

Q: Can I harvest zero objects?
A: Yes, harvesting zero means you take nothing, so 9 - 0 = 9, all objects remain.

7 Mixed Objects
Exercise 7
You have 5 🍎 and 4 🍌. You eat 3 fruits. How many fruits do you have left?
Definition:

Mixed object subtraction: Combining different types of objects and performing subtraction on the total.

Note: This introduces children to problems involving multiple types of objects but treated as a single category.

Step-by-step mixed method:
  1. Count the total number of objects of all types
  2. Add different types together to get the total
  3. Subtract the number of objects removed
  4. Count what remains after removal
🍎
🍎
🍎
🍎
🍎
🍌
🍌
🍌
🍌
-
🍎
🍌
🍎
=
6
Step 1: Count total fruits

You have 5 apples + 4 bananas = 9 fruits total

Step 2: Remove specified number

You eat 3 fruits: 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍌 🍌 🍌 🍎 🍌 🍎

Step 3: Count remaining fruits

We count what's left: 3 apples + 2 bananas = 5 fruits

(5 + 4) - 3 = 6
Final answer:

You have 6 fruits left.

Applied rules:

• Total concept: Different objects can be combined as one category

• Addition before subtraction: Combine totals before performing subtraction

• Category grouping: Fruits as a general category despite differences

• Practice Tip: Always find the total first when dealing with multiple object types

Related Examples:
  • (3 + 2) - 1 = 4 (3 of one type + 2 of another, remove 1)
  • (6 + 4) - 5 = 5 (6 of one type + 4 of another, remove 5)
  • (2 + 7) - 3 = 6 (2 of one type + 7 of another, remove 3)
Quick Tips:
  • Group different objects into a common category first
  • Add different types together to get the total
  • Then perform subtraction on the combined total
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Do I need to subtract the same type of object I removed?
A: No, you can remove any type of fruit since they're all counted as "fruits."

Q: What if I remove more than I have of one type?
A: As long as you don't exceed the total number of all objects combined, it's fine.

8 Visual Patterns
Exercise 8
You see 12 stars arranged in a pattern. 4 stars disappear. How many stars remain?
Definition:

Pattern subtraction: Using subtraction with objects arranged in visual patterns.

Note: This helps children recognize subtraction in organized arrangements, preparing them for more advanced math concepts.

Step-by-step pattern method:
  1. Count the total number of objects in the pattern
  2. Identify which objects are being removed
  3. Count what remains after removal
⭐
⭐
⭐
⭐
⭐
⭐
⭐
⭐
⭐
⭐
⭐
⭐
-
⭐
⭐
⭐
⭐
=
8
Step 1: Count initial stars

There are 12 stars in the pattern: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Step 2: Mark disappeared stars

4 stars disappear: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Step 3: Count remaining stars

We count what remains: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ = 8 stars

12 - 4 = 8
Final answer:

There are 8 stars remaining.

Applied rules:

• Pattern recognition: Organized arrangements help with counting

• Visual organization: Patterns make it easier to track objects

• Removal concept: Disappearing or vanishing represents subtraction

• Practice Tip: Arrange objects in rows to make counting easier

Related Examples:
  • Arrange 10 dots in 2 rows of 5, remove 3 = 7 remaining
  • Pattern of 15 circles in triangle, remove 6 = 9 remaining
  • Grid of 16 squares, remove 7 = 9 remaining
Quick Tips:
  • Organize objects in patterns to make counting easier
  • Rows and columns help keep track of totals
  • Mark or cross out removed objects to visualize the process
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Do patterns affect the subtraction?
A: No, the pattern just helps with counting. The subtraction result is the same regardless of arrangement.

Q: Can I rearrange objects after subtraction?
A: Yes, the total number remaining doesn't change based on arrangement.

9 Word Problems
Exercise 9
Sarah has 7 🐰 rabbits. She gives 2 🐰 rabbits to her friend. How many 🐰 rabbits does Sarah have now?
Definition:

Word problem subtraction: Translating verbal descriptions into mathematical subtraction problems.

Note: This develops reading comprehension skills alongside mathematical abilities, helping children connect words to numbers.

Step-by-step word problem method:
  1. Identify the initial quantity mentioned in the problem
  2. Identify the amount being removed or given away
  3. Set up the subtraction equation
  4. Solve and provide the answer in context
🐰
🐰
🐰
🐰
🐰
🐰
🐰
-
🐰
🐰
=
5
Step 1: Identify initial amount

Sarah has 7 rabbits: 🐰 🐰 🐰 🐰 🐰 🐰 🐰

Step 2: Identify amount given away

She gives away 2 rabbits: 🐰 🐰 🐰 🐰 🐰 🐰 🐰

Step 3: Count remaining rabbits

We count what Sarah has left: 🐰 🐰 🐰 🐰 🐰 = 5 rabbits

7 - 2 = 5
Final answer:

Sarah has 5 rabbits now.

Applied rules:

• Word identification: Recognize key phrases like "has," "gives," "remaining"

• Context preservation: Answer in the same context as the problem

• Translation skill: Convert words to mathematical operations

• Practice Tip: Underline important numbers and action words in word problems

Related Examples:
  • Tom has 6 balloons, loses 3 → 6 - 3 = 3 balloons
  • Maria has 9 stickers, uses 4 → 9 - 4 = 5 stickers
  • David has 5 cars, breaks 1 → 5 - 1 = 4 cars
Quick Tips:
  • Look for keywords that indicate subtraction: "gives," "takes," "loses," "removes"
  • Always answer in the same units as the problem
  • Check if your answer makes sense in the story context
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What if the problem uses different words?
A: Look for action words that mean "taking away": sold, gave, lost, ate, used, spent, etc.

Q: Should I draw pictures for word problems?
A: Yes, drawing helps visualize the situation and ensures you understand what's happening.

10 Advanced Pictures
Exercise 10
There are 15 🦆 ducks in the pond. 9 🦆 ducks fly away. How many 🦆 ducks are still in the pond?
Definition:

Advanced picture subtraction: Working with larger numbers and more complex visual scenarios.

Note: This challenges children to apply subtraction concepts to slightly more difficult problems while maintaining visual support.

Step-by-step advanced method:
  1. Count the total number of objects in the scene
  2. Keep track of objects being removed (may need to count carefully)
  3. Count the remaining objects accurately
  4. Verify the result
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
-
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
🦆
=
6
Step 1: Count initial ducks

There are 15 ducks in the pond: 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆

Step 2: Mark flying ducks

9 ducks fly away: 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆

Step 3: Count remaining ducks

We count what's still in the pond: 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 🦆 = 6 ducks

15 - 9 = 6
Final answer:

There are 6 ducks still in the pond.

Applied rules:

• Large number handling: Careful counting is essential with bigger numbers

• Organization: Group objects in rows or sets to make counting easier

• Verification: Double-check counts to avoid mistakes with larger numbers

• Practice Tip: Break large numbers into smaller groups (like 10 + 5 for 15)

Related Examples:
  • 14 - 8 = 6 (start with 14, remove 8)
  • 16 - 9 = 7 (start with 16, remove 9)
  • 18 - 11 = 7 (start with 18, remove 11)
Quick Tips:
  • Group larger numbers into tens and ones (15 = 10 + 5)
  • Count carefully and slowly with larger numbers
  • Use your fingers or counters if needed for extra support
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What if I make a mistake counting larger numbers?
A: Count again slowly, or group objects in tens to make it easier.

Q: Can I use strategies for larger subtraction?
A: Yes, you can break it down: 15 - 9 = 15 - 5 - 4 = 10 - 4 = 6.

Key Laws, Methods, Rules, and Definitions
Total - Removed = Remaining
Basic Subtraction Formula
Key definitions:

Subtraction: The operation of taking away objects from a group to find what remains.

Picture subtraction: Using visual representations to understand subtraction concepts.

Minuend: The number from which another number is subtracted (the starting amount).

Subtrahend: The number being subtracted (the amount taken away).

Difference: The result of subtraction (what remains).

Complete methodology:
  1. Identify the problem: Recognize the initial amount and what's being removed
  2. Visualize: Use pictures or objects to represent the situation
  3. Perform subtraction: Count the remaining objects
  4. Verify: Check that removed + remaining = original amount
Tip 1: Always count the starting amount first before doing anything else.
Tip 2: Cross out or mark objects being removed to keep track.
Tip 3: Use your fingers or counters if you need extra help counting.
Tip 4: Always verify your answer by adding the removed and remaining amounts.
Common errors: Miscounting initial objects, forgetting to subtract correctly, counting removed objects as remaining.
Practice strategies: Use real objects, draw pictures, count slowly, check work carefully.
Important rules to remember:

• Subtraction basics: You can only subtract up to the amount you started with

• Counting principle: Each object represents one unit

• Verification: Removed + Remaining = Original amount

• Visualization: Pictures help understand abstract concepts

• Patience: Count slowly and carefully, especially with larger numbers

Rules and Methods for Picture Subtraction
Minuend - Subtrahend = Difference
Subtraction Structure

Visual Subtraction Concepts

🍎
Starting Amount
The total number of objects before any are removed
➖
Taking Away
The process of removing objects from the group
❓
What Remains
The answer to the subtraction problem
✅
Verification
Check by adding removed + remaining = original
Key Subtraction Concepts
1
Count the total number of objects in the beginning
2
Identify how many objects need to be removed
3
Physically remove or mark the specified number
4
Count what remains to find the answer
Subtraction Pattern
5 - 2 = 3
Start with 5, take away 2, leaves 3
Verification Pattern
2 + 3 = 5
Removed + Remaining = Original

Key Takeaways

  • Subtraction means taking away objects from a group
  • Pictures help visualize the subtraction process
  • Always count carefully and verify your answers
  • Use strategies like crossing out or marking objects
  • Larger numbers may require grouping or counting aids

Questions & Answers

Question: My child struggles with picture subtraction when there are more than 10 objects. How can I help them count more effectively?

Answer: Great question! Here are effective strategies for larger numbers:

  • Grouping: Help your child organize objects into groups of 5 or 10 (like 10 + 5 for 15 objects)
  • Row counting: Arrange objects in rows to make tracking easier
  • Counting aids: Use fingers, counters, or small toys to assist with keeping track
  • Slow counting: Encourage your child to count slowly and touch each object

Example: For 15 objects, first count 10, then count the remaining 5. This makes 10 + 5 = 15.

The key is to make the counting process systematic rather than random.

Question: Sometimes I don't know if I should add or subtract when reading a word problem. How do I figure it out?

Answer: Look for these key words and actions:

  • Subtraction words: take away, give away, lose, eat, remove, left, remain, fewer
  • Addition words: get, receive, more, join, together, total, altogether

Also think about what's happening: if objects are going away, it's subtraction. If objects are coming together, it's addition.

Example: "Sarah has 7 rabbits and gives 2 away" → giving away means subtraction: 7 - 2 = 5.

Always ask yourself: "Are things getting more or fewer?"

Question: How can I make sure my child understands that subtraction means taking away rather than just memorizing the procedure?

Answer: Focus on conceptual understanding with these approaches:

  • Real objects: Use actual items like toys, snacks, or counters for hands-on practice
  • Storytelling: Create stories where characters give away, eat, or lose items
  • Physical actions: Have your child physically move objects away while counting
  • Verification: Always check by adding back: removed + remaining = original

The goal is for your child to visualize subtraction as "what's left after taking away" rather than just following steps.

Encourage your child to explain their thinking: "I took away 3, so I crossed them out and counted what was left."

Math Glossary

Subtraction
The mathematical operation of taking away objects from a group to find what remains. Represented by the minus sign (-).
Minuend
The number from which another number is subtracted; the starting amount in a subtraction problem.
Subtrahend
The number being subtracted; the amount taken away from the minuend.
Difference
The result of a subtraction problem; what remains after subtracting.
Picture Subtraction
Using visual representations of objects to understand and solve subtraction problems, making abstract concepts concrete.

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