Word Problems: Addition

What Are Addition Word Problems?

• Addition word problems are short stories that ask us to find a total amount.
• We look for clue words that tell us to join groups together.
• To solve them, we turn the words into a number sentence like 4 + 2 = 6.

The Clue Words When you see these words in a story, it usually means you need to add:

• In all
• Total
• Altogether
• Sum
• Both
• Plus

How to Solve a Word Problem There are three simple steps to follow:

1. Circle the Numbers: Find the numbers in the story.
2. Find the Clue Word: Look for words like total or altogether.
3. Write the Number Sentence: Put the numbers together with a + sign and an = sign.

Examples of Addition Stories

The Toy Story

• Sam has 4 toy cars. His friend gives him 3 more cars. How many cars does Sam have altogether?
• Number Sentence: 4 + 3 = 7
• Total: 7 cars.

The Garden Story

• There are 5 red flowers and 2 yellow flowers in a vase. What is the sum of the flowers?
• Number Sentence: 5 + 2 = 7
• Total: 7 flowers.

The Snack Story

• Maya ate 6 grapes. Then she ate 4 more grapes. How many grapes did she eat in all?
• Number Sentence: 6 + 4 = 10
• Total: 10 grapes.

Practice Tip: The Drawing Method

• If a word problem feels tricky, you can draw it out.
• If the story says 3 cats and 2 cats, draw 3 circles and 2 circles.
• Count every shape you drew to find the Sum.

Lesson Summary

• Word problems use stories to ask math questions.
• Look for clue words like altogether and in all to know when to add.
• Use a number sentence or a drawing to find the Sum.