Missing Decimal Part Word Problems
Teach students to identify the missing amount before calculating with decimals.
Teaching notes for parents and teachers
How to teach it
Label the total and known part, then align decimal places for subtraction. Check by adding the two parts.
Example to work through together
Use the model below as you explain the example. Have your student point to the quantities as you discuss them.
The two sections make the total. Write the relationship first: 1.97 + □ = 6.11. To find the box, subtract the known part from the total.
6.11 − 1.97 = 4.14
Ask your student
Does our answer complete the stated total?
If your student needs help
If the result has the wrong size, compare the whole-number parts before reviewing decimal alignment.
Choosing and using the worksheet
Each set has four short number word problems: two missing-part questions and two questions about the amount needed to reach a target. The total or target is between 1 and 30 inclusive. The given part is positive and no greater than the total, and at least one given amount is not a whole number. All values are exact through hundredths. At most one answer in a set is zero.
Make a practice set
Select the worksheet, answer key, or both. When both are selected, the answer key prints after the questions. Keep it separate if you want your student to work independently.
After your student finishes
Ask what the box represents and why the units line up. Check the missing amount by adding it to the known part.
Word problemsAdding and Subtracting Decimals Word Problems
Combine cable lengths or find what remains, using place value through hundredths.
4 problems · Answer key included
Word problemsMissing Part Word Problems — Within 100 or 1,000
Find a missing part or an amount needed to reach a target. Choose practice within 100 or extend to 1,000.
4 problems · Answer key included
Word problemsMissing Fraction Part Word Problems With Unlike Denominators
Use a common denominator to find the missing part, then add the parts to check the total.
4 problems · Answer key included
More about addition · Grade 5 worksheets
Grade 5 selected skill connection: 5.NBT.B.7 (selected addition/subtraction relationships through hundredths; total or target from 1 to 30). See the Common Core standards for this grade. This worksheet does not cover every requirement in the standard.