Math Worksheet · Grades 3–4
Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators Worksheet
A 3-page worksheet for grades 3-4 covering subtraction of fractions with the same denominator. Students start with a fraction-bar fluency warm-up, complete two sections of horizontal subtraction problems with denominators from 3 through 12, and finish with three word problems. Includes a strategy reference and a complete answer key.
Subject
Math
Grades
Grades 3–4
Skill Focus
Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators, fractions
Lesson Length
20 minutes
Lesson Overview
About this worksheet
Subtracting fractions with like denominators is the natural pair to adding them, and the procedure is exactly the same: subtract the numerators, keep the denominator. This worksheet builds that fluency in four short sections so students who can already add same-denominator fractions can transfer the skill in one sitting.
Section A is a fraction-bar warm-up: four shaded bars at denominators 4, 5, 6, and 8 ask the student to write the fraction shown. This re-anchors the visual model before any subtraction starts. Section B follows with eight horizontal subtraction problems at small denominators (3-8), and Section C deepens to denominators 9-12. The mix uses every same-denominator combination most fourth-grade tests cover.
Section D is three word problems applying same-denominator subtraction to pizza, juice, and walking-distance scenarios. The reference box at the top of page 1 teaches the procedure with a single worked example (9/11 – 4/11 = 5/11) using denominator 11, which is not used by any assessed item, keeping the worksheet reference-independent. Page 3 is a compact answer key that includes simplified equivalents in parentheses where the difference reduces.
How to Use This Lesson
Read the reference box aloud; have one student explain in their own words why the denominator stays the same.
Do Section A together to re-anchor the fraction-bar model before any subtraction.
Do Section B independently; review any items where the difference simplifies (e.g. 3/4 – 1/4 = 2/4 = 1/2) to surface the simplifying skill.
Section C is independent practice with larger denominators; circulate to catch students subtracting the denominators by mistake.
Section D word problems can be done in pairs so students explain their work.
Printable Resource
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Free Member Resource · Printable PDF · 3 pages · Answer Key
Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators Worksheet
A 3-page worksheet for grades 3-4 covering subtraction of fractions with the same denominator. Students start with a fraction-bar fluency warm-up, complete two sections of horizontal subtraction problems with denominators from 3 through 12, and finish with three word problems. Includes a strategy reference and a complete answer key.
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