Word Problems: Add or Subtract?

Front

What is the first step in solving a word problem that involves addition?

Back

Identify the total amount you have and any additional amounts to be added.

Front

What is the first step in solving a word problem that involves subtraction?

Back

Identify the total amount you have and the amount that will be taken away.

Front

If Buster has 1,285 tickets and his sister gives him 235 more, what operation do you use?

Back

Add (1,285 + 235 = 1,520 tickets).

Front

If Buster has 1,285 tickets and uses 430 to buy a toy, what operation do you use?

Back

Subtract (1,285 - 430 = 855 tickets left).

Front

What does it mean to 'add' in a word problem?

Back

To combine two or more amounts to find a total.

Front

What does it mean to 'subtract' in a word problem?

Back

To take away one amount from another to find the difference.

Front

How do you determine whether to add or subtract in a word problem?

Back

Look for keywords: 'total' or 'more' usually means add; 'left' or 'remaining' usually means subtract.

Front

What is a keyword that indicates you should add in a word problem?

Back

Total, combined, altogether.

Front

What is a keyword that indicates you should subtract in a word problem?

Back

Left, remaining, difference.

Front

If Mrs. Yavorski jumped rope for 47 minutes on Tuesday, 23 minutes on Wednesday, and 38 minutes on Thursday, how do you find the total time?

Back

Add (47 + 23 + 38 = 108 minutes).