In a word problem the calculation is hidden in a short text.
Read slowly and think: does something come along (plus) or does something go away (minus)?
Example: Tom has 60 marbles. He gives away 24 of them. How many are left?
Something goes away, so you work out minus: 60 − 24 = 36.
Tom has 36 marbles left.
Tip: underline the important numbers before you calculate.
The numbers filled in show the solution.
Example
There are 21 children in class 2a. There are 26 children in class 2b. How many children are there altogether? 47
Tom has 60 marbles. He gives away 24 to his friends. How many marbles does Tom have left? 36
For parents
What does this exercise practice?
Find the right calculation in a text and solve it.
Common pitfalls
Some children simply calculate with the numbers without paying attention to the question. Ask first: does something come along or does something go away?
How to practice at home
Tell little stories while shopping: we had 6 apples and buy 4 more. How many are there now?
Related: What does multiplying mean?, Comparing numbers