Subtracting Multiples of 10 Using Decomposition

Learn to use the decomposition strategy as you solve subtraction problems! In this worksheet, students will be asked to solve six equations by decomposing the subtrahend into two numbers to make two easier equations. The structure of the decomposition strategy is provided; students just need to fill in the blanks and calculate the difference! 

Use this worksheet to show second graders a subtraction strategy that they may not know yet! Not only does decomposition make difficult subtraction problems easier, it can also give students a better understanding of subtraction in general. Decomposition is a useful skill for mental math and solving problems quickly! 

For more subtraction practice, try Subtracting Multiples of 10 Using Ten Frames, Subtracting Tens on an Open Number Line: Write the Equation #1, and Going Up? Using a Hundred Chart to Subtract Multiples of 10.