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2 STEP WORD PROBLEMS WITH ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION
Word problems involving addition and subtraction can be challenging for students, especially when they involve multiple steps. These types of problems require students to not only perform the basic arithmetic operations but also to understand the problem, identify the relevant information, and determine the correct sequence of steps to solve it. In this article, we will explore 2 step word problems with addition and subtraction, provide examples, and offer strategies to help students tackle these problems effectively.
Understanding 2 Step Word Problems
2 step word problems typically involve two different operations, such as addition and subtraction, that need to be performed in sequence to find the solution. These problems often require students to apply their problem-solving skills and mathematical reasoning to determine the correct steps to solve the problem.
Example of 2 Step Word Problem
Let’s consider the following example:
John had 15 apples. He gave 7 apples to his friend and then bought 5 more apples.
. How many apples does John have now?
To solve this problem, students need to first subtract the number of apples John gave to his friend from the total number of apples he had. Then, they need to add the number of apples he bought. The solution involves both subtraction and addition operations.
Strategies for Solving 2 Step Word Problems
- Read the problem carefully: Make sure to understand the problem statement and identify the key information provided.
- Identify the operations: Determine which operations (addition, subtraction) are needed to solve the problem.
- Break down the problem: Divide the problem into smaller steps and solve each step sequentially.
- Check your answer: Verify your solution by re-reading the problem and ensuring it makes sense in the context of the problem.
Practice Problems
Here are a few practice problems for you to try:
1. Sarah had 24 pencils. She lost 9 pencils and then found 5 more pencils. How many pencils does Sarah have now?
2. A bakery sold 38 cupcakes in the morning and 15 cupcakes in the afternoon. How many cupcakes did the bakery sell in total?
Conclusion
2 step word problems with addition and subtraction can be challenging, but with practice and the right strategies, students can improve their problem-solving skills and tackle these problems effectively. By understanding the problem, identifying the operations needed, breaking down the problem into smaller steps, and checking their answers, students can become more confident in solving 2 step word problems. Encourage students to practice solving these types of problems regularly to build their proficiency and confidence in math.
