Word Problems Worksheet: Solving for Addition and Subtraction
This worksheet builds the ability to translate real-world scenarios into number sentences, teaching children ages 4-6 to spot clue words like 'gave away' or 'found more' that signal whether to add or subtract. It also practices reading comprehension applied to math, a key step as children move from rote counting toward applied reasoning.
Part of the pack
Month 12: Learning & Development | Ages 5-6
This is page 20 of the pack. Ages 5-6 · KindergartenAges 5-6 · Year 1Ages 5-6 · UKGAges 5-6
Made for your child
Taking away within 10, made for your child
A maths pack with your child's name in it: pictures that explain, practice at three levels, puzzles and story sums about them. Print a new set whenever they finish.
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Curriculum
- Word Problems > Word Problems
How to use this worksheet
Read the first word problem aloud together, pointing out key words that hint at addition or subtraction. Ask your child to decide which operation fits the story before solving it using fingers, drawings, or counters. Have them write the answer in the solution box, then repeat with each remaining problem, checking the answer by retelling the story with the number included.
Materials needed
- Pencil
- Eraser
Extension activities
- 1Turn snack time into a word problem, like 'You have 5 crackers and eat 2 — how many are left?'
- 2Act out a pretend shopping trip with play money, adding and subtracting the cost of toys.
- 3Have your child dictate their own word problem for you to solve.
- 4Draw the story on a whiteboard before writing the number sentence.
- 5Read problems aloud and have your child shout 'add' or 'subtract' before solving.
Written by
Hemsweta Jain · Teacher Cheena
MBA and Early Childhood Educator, teaching since 2014 · Founder of RaisoActive, Mumbai
Every RaisoActive worksheet is designed and checked by the founder before publishing.
Published · Last reviewed
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