Solving word problems
A word problem tells a little story with numbers. We read it slowly, find the numbers, and choose to add or take away. Some words give us a hint. Words like more, together and in all often mean we add. Words like left, gave away and fly away often mean we take away.
Key idea
Four steps: read, plan, solve, check. Put together means +. Take away means −.
Try it step by step
Worked example
Ali has 3 apples. He gets 2 more apples. How many now? The word "more" tells us to add. We put them together: 3 + 2 = 5 apples. Check by counting: 3, then 4, 5. Yes, 5 is right.
Remember
- Read the story slowly.
- Find the numbers.
- Look for hint words.
- Add or take away, then check.