Subtraction Boxes

This subtraction worksheet presents 15 carefully structured problems involving missing digits in four-digit subtraction equations. Students must analyze each column to determine which numbers belong in the minuend or subtrahend so the subtraction works correctly. The boxed, vertical format guides learners to think step by step about place-value relationships and regrouping across thousands, hundreds, tens, and ones.

Instructional Objectives

• Skill Focus (Grades 4-5): Solve four-digit subtraction problems with missing digits using structured vertical subtraction.
• Conceptual Understanding (Grades 4-5): Strengthen understanding of place value and regrouping by analyzing how digits interact across columns.
• Algebraic Reasoning (Grades 4-5): Develop algebra readiness by solving for unknown digits and maintaining equality within complex subtraction equations.
• Curriculum Alignment (Grades 4-5): Supports four-digit subtraction, missing-digit analysis, regrouping with place value, and stepwise problem-solving skills.

The gradual increase in complexity helps students build confidence while reinforcing careful reasoning and precision. The visual box structure is especially effective for learners who benefit from seeing each place value clearly separated.

Learning Benefits

• Builds confidence working with large-number subtraction
• Reinforces regrouping logic and place-value awareness
• Strengthens analytical thinking and step-by-step reasoning
• Ideal for independent practice, math centers, review, or assessment

This printable worksheet delivers rigorous, confidence-building practice that helps students master four-digit subtraction with missing digits while strengthening reasoning skills essential for advanced arithmetic and early algebra.

This worksheet is part of our Missing Number Subtraction Worksheets collection.