This worksheet is perfect for helping kindergarten and first-grade students solve math word problems. It breaks down the process into simple steps that children can follow, making learning math fun and effective. Teachers can use this worksheet to guide students through various strategies, such as drawing pictures, using ten frames, following number lines, and breaking down problems with number bonds. These methods help children understand and solve math problems with confidence.
How to use this worksheet:
Ask the child to read the problem: “Bobby has 1 teddy bear, and his friend gives him 7 more teddy bears. How many teddy bears does Bobby have now?” Ensure that they understand it. Discuss the key elements of the problem. Bobby has 1 teddy bear, and his friend gives him 7 more. Explain that these pieces of information will help in solving the problem.
Choose one or more strategies to solve the problem.
Draw a picture:
Ask the child to draw a picture representing the problem in the designated box. For example, they can draw 1 teddy bear on one side and 7 more on the other. Then, they should count all the teddy bears together.
Use a ten-frame:
Guide the child to represent the problem using the ten frame. Ask the child to fill in 1 box for Bobby’s teddy bear and 7 more boxes for the teddy bears given by his friend.
Follow the number line:
Show the child how to use the number line to solve the problem. Start at number 1 (representing Bobby’s teddy bear). Move 7 steps to the right, landing on number 8.
Deeper engagement with the problem.
Use number bonds:
Ask the child to break down the problem using number bonds. The number bond will show the number 8 split into 1 (Bobby’s teddy bear) and 7 (teddy bears given by his friend). Answer: The number bond should have 8 as the whole, with 1 and 7 as the parts.
Write the sentence:
Have the child write a complete math sentence that answers the word problem in the provided space. Answer: 1+7=8.
This worksheet is excellent for helping students practice and master math word problems for kindergarten and first grade. It’s a valuable addition to any classroom, making it easier for students to build strong math skills. Download this worksheet today to support your students’ success in math!
Printing options: black lines.
