Second Grade · Math · week 16

Word problems within 100

Solve one- and two-step word problems involving addition and subtraction within 100.

Word problems tell a story with a math question hiding inside. Read carefully to find the numbers and figure out whether the story is putting together (add) or taking apart (subtract).

Some problems take two steps -- you solve one part first, then use that answer to solve the second part. Write down what each step means so you do not get lost.

📋 For the teacher
Teach it (10–15 min):
  • Read the problem together at least twice before touching a pencil -- rushing to numbers is the most common mistake.
  • Underline or circle the numbers, and put a box around action words like "gave," "left," "more," "in all."
  • For two-step problems, ask "what do we need to find FIRST before we can answer the real question?"
  • Always end by asking if the answer makes sense in the story -- a huge number left from a small starting amount would be a red flag.
Talk about it:
  • What word or phrase in this problem told you to add or subtract?
  • Why do some problems need two steps instead of one?
  • How can you tell if your final answer makes sense for the story?

Mastery looks like: They read a one- or two-step word problem, choose the correct operations, and solve accurately.

Common stumbles: Grabbing numbers and guessing an operation without reading the story; stopping after one step on a two-step problem.

See it visually

Interactive, spoken-aloud tools that show this idea in motion.

SubtractionTake away and count back, step by step.try →AdditionSee groups combine — with counters, blocks, and the number line.try →
Homework for this lessonType it, write it with a stylus, or print it for pencil & paper.open →
Records attendance + 15 min of Math for this learner.
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