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math properties - Printable Math Worksheets grade 3 - Wayground

math properties

Loretta Walsh

Created by Loretta Walsh

12 questions

3rd Grade

Math

Updated Mar 2026

Math Properties is a Grade 3 mathematics worksheet with 12 multiple-choice questions on identifying and applying the commutative, associative, and distributive properties. Students analyze multiplication and addition equations, select equivalent expressions, identify the property shown, and solve missing-number items that demonstrate how these properties work. The questions include examples such as reversing the order of factors or addends, recognizing changed grouping in multiplication, and distinguishing among property names.

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math properties

Total questions: 12

Name
Class
Date
1.
9 x 2 = 2 x 9
a)
Commutative Property of Multiplication
b)
Associative Property of Multiplication
c)
Multiplicative Inverse Property
d)
Distributive Property
2.
This property tells us that you can move the parentheses when you are multiplying and the answer will not change. 
a)
Associative Addition 
b)
Associative Multiplication
c)
Commutative Addition 
d)
Commutative Multiplication 
3.
Using the commutative property, what would be the equivalent expression for 
5 + 6 = ?
a)
6 + 5
b)
5 + 6
c)
11
4.
___ + 5 = 5 + 9
a)
9
b)
19
c)
14
d)
-9
5.
 16 • 4 = 4 • 16
a)
Zero Property
b)
Commutative Property of Multiplication 
c)
Identity Property of Multiplication
d)
Distributive Property
6.
Which property is used in the following expression?
(4 x 2) x 5 = 2 x (5 x 4)
a)
Associative Property of Addition
b)
Commutative Property of Addition
c)
Associate Property of Multiplication
d)
Distributive Property of Multiplication
7.
Which equation shows the Commutative Property of Multiplication ?
a)
7 x 3 = 7 + 7 + 7
b)
8 x 1 = 8
c)
3x6 - 4x6 = (3-4)x6
d)
5 x 2 = 2 x 5
8.
What is the missing number?

What is the missing number?

a)

9

b)

6

c)

54

9.
What is the missing number?

What is the missing number?

a)

8

b)

3

c)

9

10.
Choose the property shown.

Choose the property shown.

a)

commutative

b)

associative

c)

distributive

11.
Choose the property shown.

Choose the property shown.

a)

commutative

b)

associative

c)

distributive

12.
What is the missing number?

What is the missing number?

a)

9

b)

2

c)

8

WaygroundAnswer Key

math properties

Total questions: 12

1.
a) Commutative Property of Multiplication
2.
b) Associative Multiplication
3.
a) 6 + 5
4.
a) 9
5.
b) Commutative Property of Multiplication 
6.
c) Associate Property of Multiplication
7.
d) 5 x 2 = 2 x 5
8.
a)

9

9.
c)

9

10.
c)

distributive

11.
c)

distributive

12.
a)

9

FAQs

What does this math properties worksheet help Grade 3 students learn?

This worksheet helps Grade 3 students identify and apply the commutative, associative, and distributive properties of addition and multiplication. Its 12 multiple-choice items ask students to name the property shown, choose an equivalent expression, and find missing numbers in property-based equations, building accuracy with both vocabulary and algebraic reasoning.

How can I use this worksheet to teach math properties?

Introduce one property at a time with a simple equation, then have students explain what changed and what stayed the same before completing the matching multiple-choice items. Use the worksheet’s examples of reordered terms, regrouped factors, and property-based missing numbers to prompt students to justify why an option is equivalent rather than choosing from memory alone.

What mistakes should I watch for on this math properties worksheet?

Watch for students confusing commutative and associative properties: commutative items change the order of numbers, while associative multiplication items change grouping with parentheses. Students may also select a property based on the operation alone, overlook the distributive choices, or choose a distractor such as a product instead of the missing number that preserves the equation.

How do I assign and grade this math properties worksheet?

The worksheet is available as a printable PDF and as a digital quiz on Wayground, and it includes a complete answer key for all 12 multiple-choice questions. For printable submissions, scan student work with the Wayground for Teachers app to help grade responses efficiently.

How can I differentiate this math properties worksheet for my students?

Use the worksheet’s Advanced Settings to adjust font spacing or font size so the multiple-choice equations and answer options are easier to read. You can also enable a dyslexia-friendly font or translate the property names, equations, and directions into another language when appropriate.

Where can I find more worksheets like this on Wayground?

Wayground offers a broad collection of free printable worksheets and practice problems across subjects, with downloadable PDFs and answer keys to support mastery of essential skills and concepts. Browse more resources at https://wayground.com/en-us/worksheets.