Addition and Subtraction Word Problems Within 10

Word problems are like short math stories. They tell us about a real-life situation and ask a question. To find the answer, we use addition (putting things together) or subtraction (taking things away). Let's look at how to solve word problems using numbers up to $10$.

Addition Word Problems ("Put Together")

When a story asks you to put groups together or add more to what you already have, you use addition. Look for clue words like more, in all, total, or altogether.

Example: Tom has $3$ toys. He gets $4$ more. How many does he have now?

1. Find the numbers: $3$ and $4$.
2. Look for the clue word: "more" means we need to add ($+$).
3. Write the equation: $3 + 4 = 7$

Tom has $7$ toys now.

Subtraction Word Problems ("Take Away")

When a story tells you that something is taken away, lost, or eaten, you use subtraction. Look for clue words like left, fewer, gave away, or take away.

Example: There are $8$ cookies. You eat $3$. How many are left?

1. Find the numbers: $8$ and $3$.
2. Look for the clue word: "left" (and "eat") means we need to subtract ($-$).
3. Write the equation: $8 - 3 = 5$

There are $5$ cookies left.

Steps to Solve Any Math Story

1. Read the story carefully. Picture what is happening in your mind.
2. Find the numbers. These are the amounts you will use to solve the problem.
3. Find the clue words. Decide if you are putting things together ($+$) or taking them away ($-$).
4. Write the math equation and find your answer!