1st Grade Math

Fundamental mathematics concepts for first grade students including basic arithmetic, counting, and number sense.

Counting and Number SenseBasic AdditionBasic SubtractionUnderstanding Place Value
Addition and Subtraction Word ProblemsCounting by Groups (Skip Counting)Understanding Patterns
Math in the Grocery StoreMath at HomeMath on the Playground
Using Visual AidsChecking Your Work
Counting and Number ...Basic AdditionBasic SubtractionUnderstanding Place ...Addition and Subtrac...Counting by Groups (...Understanding Patter...Math in the Grocery ...Math at HomeMath on the Playgrou...Using Visual AidsChecking Your Work
Advanced Topics

Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

Solving Word Problems

Word problems use stories to describe math questions. You need to read, understand what is happening, and decide if you should add or subtract.

Steps to Solve

  1. Read the story carefully.
  2. Find the important numbers.
  3. Decide if you are joining (add) or taking away (subtract).
  4. Write your math sentence and solve!

Clues in the Words

Words like "in all" or "total" often mean addition. Words like "left" or "gave away" often mean subtraction.

Practice Makes Perfect

The more you practice, the easier word problems become!

Examples

  • Sally has 4 apples. She gets 3 more. How many does she have now? (4 + 3 = 7)

  • Tom has 8 marbles. He gives 5 to his friend. How many does he have left? (8 - 5 = 3)

In a Nutshell

Word problems help you use math in stories and real-life situations.

Key Terms

Word Problem
A math question written as a story.
Math Sentence
A number sentence using numbers and symbols.
Next
Counting by Groups (Skip Counting)