For grade 1 students, the best approach to tackling word problems is this step-by-step process:
Understand the problem (comprehension)
Encourage them to read the problem aloud (or listen if read to them).
Ask “What is the question asking?”
Look for key words that indicate operations (e.g., “in all” for addition, “left” for subtraction).
Identify important information
Teach them to underline or highlight numbers and clue words.
Ignore unnecessary details (some word problems include extra information to challenge comprehension).
Choose the right operation (+ or -)
Help them recognize addition vs. subtraction clues:
Addition: "altogether," "in all," "total"
Subtraction: "left," "fewer," "how many more"
Use visuals or manipulatives
Draw pictures (stick figures, groups of objects).
Use counters, blocks, or fingers to solve.
Represent problems with simple number sentences (e.g., 3 + 2 = ?).
Check the answer
Ask: "Does my answer make sense?"
Have them recount and check their sums.
Ask them to explain their thinking (even in simple words).
Addition and subtraction word problems worksheets
For practice, we have a series of word problems covering addition and subtraction in our grade 1 math section.
Single-digit addition word problems
These word problems involve the addition of single-digit numbers.
Addition with sums up to 50
These worksheets have word problems with sums up to 50.
Adding three of more numbers word problems
These harder word problems ask students to add three or more numbers.
Add and subtract word problems with single-digit numbers
These mixed word problems involve addition and subtraction.
Add and subtract word problems with numbers under 50
These mixed word problems tackle harder questions.
Single-digit subtraction problems
These worksheets involve subtracting single-digit numbers.
Subtraction word problems with sums up to 50
In these harder word problem worksheets, students work on numbers up to 50.
