Third Grade · Math · week 17

Two-step word problems

Solve two-step word problems, choosing operations and checking that the answer makes sense.

Real problems often take two steps. Read carefully, figure out what happens FIRST, solve that, then use your result for the second step. Underline the numbers and the question.

After you get an answer, ask "does this make sense?" If a question asks how many are LEFT and your answer is bigger than you started with, something went wrong.

📋 For the teacher
Teach it (10–15 min):
  • Read the problem together; have them tell you the story in their own words before any math.
  • Insist on labeling each step ("first… then…") so the plan is visible.
  • Always end with the sense-check question — it is a lifelong habit.
  • If they are stuck, act the problem out with objects.
Talk about it:
  • What should you do before you start calculating?
  • How do you know which step comes first?
  • How does the sense-check catch mistakes?

Mastery looks like: They plan and solve two-step problems, label both steps, and sense-check the result.

Common stumbles: Doing only one step; grabbing numbers without deciding the operation; skipping the sense-check.

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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