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Check Out These 50 Second-Grade Math Word Problems of the Day

Hunter has 47 baseball cards in his collection.

Opening your daily math lesson with a Math Word Problem of the Day is an excellent way to set the stage for learning. We all know that word problems are difficult for young learners to grasp, even when the mathematical operation portion of the problem is basic. Incorporate these second grade math word problems one day at a time at the start of your math block to build confidence, critical thinking skills, and a learning community!

Topics covered include addition, subtraction, multiplication, even/odd, three digit numbers, and time. All you need to do is post one of these second grade math word problems on your whiteboard or projector screen. Then let kids take it from there!

Want this entire set of second grade math word problems in one easy document? Get your free PowerPoint bundle by submitting your email here .

50 Second Grade Math Word Problems

1. trey has 5 squishy toys. he gets 4 more for his birthday. how many squishy toys does he have in all.

2. Stephanie brings donuts to give out to her classmates on her birthday. She brings in 8 powdered donuts, 8 glazed donuts, and 10 chocolate donuts. How many donuts did she bring in all?

3. Sara goes to the library. She is allowed to check out 10 books. She chooses 5 picture books and 3 chapter books. How many more books can she choose?

4. David plants 8 pineapple seeds, 5 strawberry seeds, and 2 blueberry seeds. How many seeds does he plant in all?

5. Paige has 10 crayons. Mike has 6 more crayons than Paige. Jon has 9 crayons. How many crayons do they have in all?

6. Jeff has 21 marbles in his collection. Eddie has 39 marbles in his collection. How many marbles do they have in all?

7. Vicki goes to the zoo and sees 8 flamingos. Next, she sees 15 ducks, before seeing 22 ibises. How many birds did she see in all?

8. Joshua sells 26 tickets to the school play. Nina sells 39 tickets to the school play. How many tickets did they sell in all?

9. The second grade goes on a field trip to the aquarium. There are 7 teachers, 62 girls, and 59 boys. How many people go on the field trip in all?

10. Some apples are in an apple orchard. 38 apples are picked. Now there are 52 left. How many apples were there to start?

11. Blake swam 18 laps on Monday. He swam 22 laps on Tuesday. He swam 27 laps on Wednesday. How many laps did he swim in all?

12. enzio reads for 25 minutes on monday. he reads for 33 minutes on tuesday. he reads for 35 minutes on wednesday. how many minutes does he read for in all.

13. Dana has 15 yummy cookies. He eats some of the cookies. Dana has 7 cookies left. How many cookies did Dana eat?

14. Eric had 12 toy cars. He gave 5 of the cars to his friend, Darren. How many toy cars does he have now?

15. Carolyn saw 15 beautiful birds in a tree. Some birds flew away. Now there are 4 birds in the tree. How many birds flew away?

16. Christina sold 32 boxes of girl scout cookies. Lea sold 44 boxes of girl scout cookies. How many more boxes did Lea sell than Christina?

17. Mimi has 23 more crayons than markers. She has 15 markers. How many crayons does she have?

18. Carrie has 36 pieces of candy. She gives 13 pieces to Tommy. How many pieces of candy does Carrie have left?

19. Dahlia has 28 dolls on a shelf. She moves some to her dollhouse. Now 15 dolls are on the shelf. How many did she move to the bed?

20. Jerry has 12 soccer balls. Bob had 17 soccer balls, but gave 8 of them to Phil. How many tennis balls do Jerry and Bob have now?

21. John has 54 pieces of candy. He eats 7 pieces on Monday. On Tuesday, he eats 11 pieces. On Wednesday, he gives 17 pieces away to friends. How many pieces of candy does he have left?

22. Maria has 29 marbles. Sam has 56 marbles. Rachel has 67 marbles. How many more marbles does Rachel have than Ella?

23. Steven buys 52 strawberries. He eats 12 of them for a snack. He eats 15 of them later that evening for dessert. How many strawberries are left?

24. Diana collects stickers. She has 48 stickers in an album. She buys 27 more stickers. She then gives 18 stickers to her friend Judy. How many stickers does she have now?

25. Hunter has 47 baseball cards in his collection. Ryan has 39 cards in his collection. How many more cards does Hunter have?

26. There are 95 people on a train. 19 people get off at the first stop. 24 people get off at the second stop. How many people are still on the train?

27. Daryl loves to collect comic books with superheroes. He has 5 comic books on his desk. He has 3 comic books in his backpack. Does Daryl have an even number or odd number of comic books?

28. Kim collects special seashells at the beach. She puts 8 shells in a pail. She puts 7 more shells in a jar. Does Kim have an even or odd number of seashells?

29. Leslie plants red peppers in her garden. Her garden has 6 rows with 5 peppers in each row. How many tomatoes are in her garden?

30. Marc puts 16 photos in an album. If there are 4 cards in each column, how many columns are there?

31. Ms. Sanders wanted to treat her class to a pizza party. There are 8 slices of pizza in each pizza pie. If she has 29 students, how many pizza pies does she need to order?

32. Four friends want to share a pumpkin pie. How could they cut the pie so each friend gets an equal share? Draw a picture to help you show your thinking.

33. Choose a three-digit number. Draw models to show the hundreds, tens, and ones to explain your thinking.

34. Liam is thinking of a number with three digits. It has 7 hundreds, 4 tens, and 6 ones. What is his number? Draw a model to explain your thinking.

35. Juliana has 257 stickers in her collection. She wants to explore this number further. First, she draws a model of the number by drawing base ten blocks. Then she writes it out in expanded form. Last, she writes it out in word form. Show how she does all three of these ways to explain 257.

36. Caleb is skip counting. He writes 160, 165, and 170 on a whiteboard. What are the next 5 numbers in his pattern?

37. The Florida Gators Football Team won their last 4 football games. They scored 25 points in the first game, 58 points in the second game, 33 points in the third game, and 77 points in the fourth game. How many points did they score in all?

38. Nolan collects Pokemon cards. He has 402 cards in his collection. He gives 25 cards to his friend Charlotte. He then gives 32 cards to his friend Maria. How many cards does he have left?

39. A school is having a bake sale. Dhomini’s mom brings 82 cupcakes. Amelia’s dad brings 75 cookies. Lorenzo’s mom brings 100 brownies. How many items are at the bake sale in all?

40. Kristella is reading a Magic Treehouse Book for her book report. She reads 24 pages on Monday. She reads 39 pages on Tuesday. She reads 37 pages on Wednesday. How many pages does she read in all?

41. Erica is reading James and the Giant Peach. The book has 144 pages. She reads 30 pages on Monday. She reads 42 pages on Tuesday. How many pages does she have left in the book?

42. Alana and her family are going to Disney World for her birthday. It is a 425 mile drive from her house. Her dad drives 127 miles before they stop for a snack. He drives another 233 miles before they stop for lunch. How many more miles do they have left until they arrive at Disney World?

43. The high school band is having a holiday concert. Peggy sells 75 tickets. Diana sells 101 tickets. Judy sells 135 tickets. How many tickets do they sell in all?

44. Mr. Axelrod’s class is tracking how many picture books they read each month. They read 329 books in March. They read 471 books in April. They read 450 books in May. How many books did they read in all?

45. The museum has 792 visitors over the weekend. 382 people visited the museum on Saturday. How many people visited the museum on Sunday?

46. Luna sells copies of the school newspaper. There are 500 copies. On Monday, she sold 122 copies. On Tuesday, she sold 198 copies. How many copies are left?

47. The second grade classes are going on a field trip to a play. Ms. Anastasio’s class has 29 students. Mr. Gordon’s class has 31 students. Mr. Fishman’s class has 33 students. Ms. McConnell’s class has 30 students. How many students go on the field trip in all?

48. Carlos is going to New York City on vacation. His plane leaves the airport at 2:30 p.m. The flight is 3 hours and 30 minutes long. What time does he land in New York City?

49. Juanita is watching the movie Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. She starts the movie at 5 p.m. The movie is 2 hours and 32 minutes long. What time does the movie end?

50. Harry, Ron, and Hermione are on their way to Hogwarts. The train leaves the station in London at 9 a.m. It takes 7 hours to get to Hogwarts. What time do they arrive at Hogwarts?

Enjoying these second grade math word problems? Check out our second grade hub for even more resources.

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Examples of Second Grade Word Problems with Solutions

In today’s post, we are going to see a selection of Second Grade word problems that usually appear at the end of a Smartick session for children with a second-grade level . You will also get a chance to see the solution for each problem.

Ready? Let’s go!

How To Correctly Solve Any Problem

• Read the word problem carefully! You should understand what is being asked very clearly.
• Write down the data.
• Complete the operations and always write down the results for each.
• Write the solution very clearly and respond to what the problem asks.

Second Grade Word Problems

Let’s practice with a selection of Second Grade word problems from Smartick.

Word Problem 1

For this word problem, Smartick has given us the solution and it is up to us to select the correct question.

The answer is: ”They were planting 38 chestnut seeds.” Let’s take a look at each option to see which would work with this answer, we’ll use the process of elimination.

• How many more chestnut seeds than oak seeds were they planting?  This is asking us about the different types of seeds, but the solution is only asking about chestnuts so this question is not what we are looking for.
• Are fewer chestnut trees or fewer oak trees expected to grow? This answer isn’t the one we are looking for because the answer only gives us information about chestnut seeds.
• How many more poplar seeds than oak seeds were they planting? Nothing was mentioned in the word problem or the answer about poplar trees.
• How many chestnut seeds were they planting? Here were are being asked about the number of chestnut seeds that were planted and the solution tells us the amount that was planted. This is the question that we are looking for.

Word Problem 2

This word problem is asking how many tablespoons of oil have been added to a stew, and we know that there were 20 tablespoons more added than the 9 tablespoons that the recipe called for. So we need to know how many tablespoons in total were added to the stew.

9 + 20 = 29

29 tablespoons of oil were added to the stew. 

Word Problem 3

Here, we are being asked to calculate the total number of clocks. To help us solve it, we can create a drawing using the information from the word problem. It tells us that there are 2 clocks on each shelf, and there are 6 shelves.

Word Problem 4

First, we are asked which operation we need to use to solve the problem and are provided with the options of addition and subtraction. Let’s read the word problem carefully to see which would work best…

There were 6 oranges before Diego added more, and now there are 10. Therefore, the difference between the amount in the bowl now, and the amount there was before, is the amount that Diego added. If we add the numbers, adding the larger quantity to the lesser quantity, it does not give us the number of oranges Diego added to the bowl. However, if we subtract the smaller quantity from the larger quantity, we should find the difference.

The answer to the first question would be: 10 – 6.

And the solution to the word problem: 10 – 6 = 4 .

Diego added 4 oranges. 

I hope you have learned something new from this selection of second grade word problems that appear during our daily Smartick sessions. If you would like to learn more about other primary school math topics, register with Smartick and try it for free.

Learn More:

• What Do Double and Half Mean?
• Examples of 3rd Grade Math Word Problems with Solutions
• How to Solve Multiplication Word Problems
• Alternative Word Problems at Smartick
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20 Word Problems For 2nd Grade: Develop Their Problem Solving Skills Across Single and Mixed Topics

Emma Johnson

Word problems for second grade are an important tool for improving number fluency. The key focus of math in second grade is on ensuring students are becoming more fluent with number facts and the concept of place value. Children are starting to develop more efficient written methods by this stage and are beginning to carry out calculations with increasingly larger whole numbers.

As children progress through school, they are exposed to a wider variety of problem solving questions covering a range of concepts. In second grade, these include addition, subtraction, measurement and data.  

It is important that children are regularly exposed to reasoning and problem solving questions, alongside the fluency work each lesson. It is also important to remember that all children need exposure to reasoning and problem solving questions, not just the higher attaining students who finish quickest.

We have put together a collection of 20 word problems, aimed at second grade students.

Word Problems Grade 2 Addition and Subtraction

11 grade 2 addition and subtraction questions to develop reasoning and problem solving skills.

Place value

Addition and subtraction, measurement, data representation, why are word problems important in second grade math, benefits of pairs, groups and class discussion , addition question 1, addition question 2, addition question 3, subtraction question 1, subtraction question 2, subtraction question 3, multi-step question 1, multi-step question 2, multi-step question 3, more word problems resources, second grade math word problems.

In second grade, students focus on one-step problems, covering a range of topics. At this stage the majority of word problems students are tackling will have one-step, but they may also start to be introduced to simple two-step word problems. Here is a breakdown of topics that will be covered and expectations in second grade. 

Solve number problems and practical problems involving recognizing the place value of each digit of a 3-digit number; comparing and ordering numbers up to 1,000 and identifying, representing and estimating numbers using different representations.

Solve problems, including missing number problems, using number facts, place value and more complex addition and subtraction word problems .

Solve problems involving length; adding and subtracting within money word problems involving dollar bills, quarters, dimes, nickels and pennies.

Solve-step and two-step questions (For example, ‘How many more?’ and ‘How many fewer’?) using information presented in scaled bar charts, pictograms and tables.

By second grade, children are starting to learn how to use some of the formal written methods of addition and subtraction. It is important that the link between math in school and math in real-life continues to be made. Word problems are a key element in helping students to make this link. 

How to teach problem solving in second grade

When teaching math problems to second grade, it’s important to think of ways to make them fun, engaging and something the children are able to relate to. This might include acting out the problem, using concrete resources and providing visual images, to bring the problems to life. 

Children should have plenty of opportunity to talk in pairs, groups and as a whole class, to share their understanding of what is being asked and their math strategies for problem solving . The use of manipulatives is important and all children should have access to a range of math resources when solving problems like this.

Students need to be encouraged to read word problems carefully and to make sure they understand what is being asked, before attempting to tackle the problem. This is where the use of a partner and group discussion can really help children’s understanding. Students then need to think about what they already know and how they can use this to help them answer the question. Where appropriate, students should also be encouraged to draw diagrams and pictures to help them solve the question.

Here is an example:

Mason has 24 glass jars to put flowers in.

He gives 5 to Marcy and drops 2 while carrying them inside the shop.

How many glass jars does Mason have left?

How to solve:

What do you already know?

• Mason has a total of 24 glass jars.
• We know he gives Marcy 5 jars, which means we will need to subtract 5 from 4. 
• He also dropped 2, also meaning we will need to subtract.
• In second grade, children should be building confidence with adding and subtracting within 20, and should be able to do these calculations in their heads.
• Children who aren’t able to recall quickly could use counters to represent the jars, or draw a bar model to help solve it.

How can this be drawn/represented visually?

We can draw a bar model or counters to represent this problem:

• To calculate how many jars are left, we can either use or draw 24 counters. We can then remove or cross out the 5 jars given to Marcy, and then 2 jars that were broken.
• Using the bar model, we can first subtract 5 from 24, representing the jars given to Marcy, leaving 19 jars. Then subtract 2 more from 19, to represent the two jars broken.
• Mason had 17 glass jars left. 

Addition word problems for second grade

In second grade, students are exposed to a range of addition word problems, including problems involving mental addition and addition of up to 3-digits using formal written methods.

See also: Mental math second grade

A family driving on holiday travel 146 miles from home to the first service station.

They then drive a further 175 miles to reach their destination.

How far have they traveled altogether?

Answer : 321 miles

146 + 175 = 321

Elvie is buying a can of soda from a vending machine. She has put in 2 quarters, 2 dimes, and 3 nickels. 

How much is the can of soda?

Answer : 85¢

50¢ + 20¢ + 15¢ = 85¢

Jamie scored 443 on his new online game.

Jared scored 468.

How many points did they score between them?

Answer : 911 points

443 + 468 = 911

At Third Space Learning we often tie word problems into our one-to-one online tuition. With each programme personalized to the needs of each individual student, children are able to develop their problem solving skills, math fluency and grow confidence in math.

Subtraction word problems for second grade

Subtraction word problems in second grade also need to comprise of a combination of mental calculation questions and those involving formal written subtraction up to 3-digits. Children should also be starting to estimate answers and check their calculations by using the inverse.

Ahmed collects 374 stickers.

He needs 526 stickers to fill his sticker album.

How many more stickers does he need to collect?

Answer : 152 stickers

526 – 374 = 152

 A bag of carrots weigh 360g

A bag of tomatoes weighs 235g.

How much heavier is the bag of carrots?

Answer : 125g

360 – 235 = 125

 Ahmed buys a bag of candy with 200 pieces in it.

Over 2 weeks, he eats 145 pieces. How many pieces of candy does Ahmed have left?

Answer : 55 pieces of candy

200 – 145 or count up from 145 to 200.

Multi-step word problems in second grade

When children first move into elementary school, word problems are predominantly one-step. As they become more confident they can be exposed to more word problems, requiring a second step or multi-step word problems. When first introducing two-step problems, keep the numbers used in the problems low and manageable to allow students to focus on reasoning over calculations.

Oliver had 3 bags of candies.

Each bag contained 15 candies.

Oliver’s little brother ate 17 pieces of the candy. How many pieces of candy does Oliver have left?

Answer : 9 sweets

15 + 15 + 15 = 45 

45  – 17 = 28

A teacher photocopies 95 math worksheets and 80 English worksheets in one week.

Teachers can print a maximum of 300 worksheets per week. 

How many can the teacher print for other subjects?

Answer : 125 worksheets

 95 + 80 = 175

300 – 175 = 125

A flower shop picks 19 roses and 25 daisies fresh from their garden.

A customer orders a dozen flowers for a birthday gift.

How many flowers will the flower shop have left?

Answer : 32 flowers

19 + 25 = 44 flowers (roses and daisies combined)

44 – 12 = 32 flowers

We hope that this collection of word problems for second grade becomes a useful resource in your second grade math classroom. 

For more resources, take a look at our library. Third Space Learning offers a wide array of math and word problems resources for other grades. These include worksheets , end of year assessments and a range of math games and activities for students from kindergarten through to 6th grade. 

Do you have students who need extra support in math? Give your students more opportunities to consolidate learning and practice skills through personalized math tutoring with their own dedicated online math tutor. Each student receives differentiated instruction designed to close their individual learning gaps, and scaffolded learning ensures every student learns at the right pace. Lessons are aligned with your state’s standards and assessments, plus you’ll receive regular reports every step of the way. Personalized one-on-one math tutoring programs are available for: – 2nd grade tutoring – 3rd grade tutoring – 4th grade tutoring – 5th grade tutoring – 6th grade tutoring – 7th grade tutoring – 8th grade tutoring Why not learn more about how it works ?

The content in this article was originally written by former Deputy Headteacher Emma Johnson and has since been revised and adapted for US schools by elementary math teacher Christi Kulesza.

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Math Word Problem Worksheets for 2nd Graders

Practicing math word problems with these worksheets in second grade will introduce kids to multi-step problems while practicing their addition and subtraction skills. Some problems will also include money questions and time. Easy and more advanced questions included in these math workbooks.

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Second Grade Math Problems

Welcome to the Second Grade Math Problems page. We have a wide selection of longer math problems requiring a wide range of math skills to solve.

These problems are also a great way of developing perseverance and getting children to try different approaches in their math.

On this webpage are our selection of longer, more in-depth problem solving sheets for 2nd grade.

Typically, there is just one problem on each page with maybe a follow up problem in some cases.

The sheets cover a wide range of Math topics, from place value and number fact knowledge to geometry and logic problems.

The following worksheets have been designed to develop a wide range of skills and problem solving techniques such as:

• making lists or tables
• drawing pictures to help solve problems
• working systematically
• logical thinking
• number fact knowledge
• persevering until all solutions have been found

An answer sheet is available for each worksheet provided, where appropriate.

These sheets can be used in many different ways:

• to challenge more able pupils
• to use as a way of developing strategies to explore more in-depth problems, such as making lists or tables
• to use as an extension activity for children who finish early
• to use as part of a Maths challenge board
• Broken Calculator Problem 1

The Broken Calculator problem is a number problem involving using an imaginary broken calculator with only the 2, 3, + and = buttons working to make different totals.

There are 2 versions of the problem sheet, one with a pre-prepared template for filling in, and a second blank version for children to show their own recording system.

• No table version
• PDF version

Anyone for an Ice Cream?

Anyone for an Ice Cream is a money activity which involves using silver coins only to make a total of 40¢ . The aim is to find all the possibilities.

• Anyone for an Ice-cream?
• Anyone for an Ice Cream? UK version
• Tyger's Coin Challenges

Tyger's Coin Challenge is a money activity. The aim is to see whether or not different amounts of money can be made from a number of coins.

• Captain Salamander's Letter

This 2nd grade math problem sheet involves working out which totals of money can be made using only 3¢ and 5¢ stamps. It is a good activity for developing perseverance and logical thinking.

• Balloon Pairs #2

Balloon Pairs is a number adding activity where the aim is to find different totals by adding the balloon numbers together. The totals are then sorted in order of size using a table.

• Balls in the Bucket Challenge #2

This challenge involves working out how different scores were made in the balls-in-the-bucket game. It is a 'finding all possibilities' type of problem.

• Birthday Girl

Birthday Girl is an activity which involves finding the correct ages of all the people in the challeges using the clues that are given.

• Climb the Mountain

This is one of our second grade math problems that involves finding all the possible paths up to the top of the mountain using the routes provided.

• Dilly's Eggs #1

Dilly's eggs is a sharing problem - drawing it out is a good strategy for tackling this problem. The aim is to find the number of eggs Dilly had using the clues provided.

• Odd Square Out

This is a good activity for developing noticing skills and recognising shapes that have been rotated or reflected.

• Parking Lots #2

Parking Lots is an activity where the aim is to find as many combinations as possible for the cars to park. Systematic working could be an area of focus for this activity.

• Pick the Cards #2

Pick the Cards is an adding game where the aim is to use combinations of numbers to reach a given total. This activity is good for adding three or four small numbers together to make a given total.

• Place It Right #2

Place It Right is a place value activity to support children with their place value learning. The aim is to make a range of 3 digit numbers with different properties.

• Share the Treasure #2

Share the Treasure is a logic acitivity where the aim is to share some treasure according to certain criteria.

• Who Chose Which Shape #2

Who Chose Which Shape is a logic problem where children have to work out which salamander chose which shape from the clues given.

Looking for some easier word problems

We have a range of easier word problems at our parent site, math-salamanders.com

The problems on this page are at a simpler level than those here.

Many of the problems, e.g. Dilly's Eggs, Pick the Cards and Share the Treasure have easier versions on this page.

Using the link below will open our main site in a new tab.

• First Grade Math Problems

Looking for some harder word problems

We have a range of more challenging word problems at our parent site, math-salamanders.com

The problems on this page are at a trickier level than those here.

Some of the problems, e.g. Place It Right and Share the Treasure have harder versions on this page.

• 3rd Grade Math Problems

Addition and Subtraction Puzzles

The puzzles in this section mainly focus on adding and subtracting numbers.

The puzzles start with adding and subtracting to 20, and progress on to harder levels and more complex puzzles.

Using the puzzles in this section will help your child to:

• develop their adding and subtracting skills;
• develop trial and improvement strategies;
• improve problem solving skills.

All the second grade math problems in this section will help your child to learn their addition and subtraction facts and become more confident with handling numbers mentally.

• Free Math Puzzles - Addition and Subtraction

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Here is the grading guide for our worksheets.

White: the easiest level for children at their early stages in 2nd grade.

Orange: medium level of difficulty for children who are working at the expected level in 2nd grade.

Purple: this is the hardest level for children who need that extra challenge.

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2nd-grade Word Problem Worksheets

Related Pages Math Worksheets Lessons for Second Grade Free Printable Worksheets

Printable Word Problem Worksheets for 2nd Grade: Addition Word Problems 2nd-grade Word Problems Add/Subtract Word Problems

Using tape diagrams, also known as bar models, can be a helpful visual tool for solving word problems. Tape diagrams help students represent quantities and relationships between them.

How to solve word problems using tape diagrams:

• Read the Word Problem Carefully read the word problem to understand the scenario and identify the key information. Step 2: Identify the Unknown Determine what the problem is asking you to find. This is can be the whole or part of a whole. Step 3: Draw the Tape Diagram Draw a rectangular tape diagram to represent the quantities involved in the problem. Each part of the tape represents a different quantity or group. Step 4: Label the Parts Label each part of the tape diagram with the quantities or numbers mentioned in the problem. Use labels or numbers to indicate the values. Label the unknown with a “?" Step 5: Add or subtract to find the unknown.

Tape diagrams are a powerful visual tool that supports students in understanding and solving word problems by breaking down information into visual representations.

Click on the following worksheet to get a printable pdf document. Scroll down the page for more 2nd-grade Word Problem Worksheets.

More 2nd-grade Word Problem Worksheets

(These worksheets are printable files with answers on the second page.) 2nd-grade Word Problem Worksheet #1 2nd-grade Word Problem Worksheet #2

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Subtraction Word Problems Addition Word Problems Addition/Subtraction Word Problems Comparison Word Problems

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Word Problems Activities for 2nd Grade

Strengthen your child's word problems skills with interactive educational resources for word problems for 2nd graders online. These learning resources include fun games and worksheets with eye-catching visuals and characters. Get started to help your 2nd grader master this concept by engaging their critical thinking.

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• Estimate Lengths (8)
• Am And Pm (11)
• Time In Quarter Hours (21)
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• Money (111)
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Addition Word Problems

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Find the Sum Using Part-Part-Whole Model Worksheet

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Write Equations Using Part-Part-Whole Model Worksheet

Learn number sense at the speed of lightning by writing equations using 'Part-Part-Whole' model.

Subtraction Word Problems

Word Problems to Subtract Multiples of 10 Game

Help your child take flight by learning how to solve word problems to subtract multiples of 10.

Solve Word Problems on Take From Scenarios Game

Enjoy the marvel of math-multiverse by learning to solve word problems on "Take From" scenarios.

Identify the Correct Expression for the Subtraction Scenario Worksheet

Enhance subtraction skills with this worksheet on comparing word problems effectively.

Identify the Correct Subtraction Scenario Worksheet

Improve subtraction skills with this worksheet on comparing word problem scenarios.

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Solve Word Problems on Adding Three Numbers Game

Learn to solve word problems on adding three numbers through this game.

Complete the Model Using Clues Worksheet

Assess your math skills by completing the model using clues in this worksheet.

Write the Equation using Clues Worksheet

Be on your way to become a mathematician by practicing to write the equation using clues.

Solve Subtraction Word Problems Game

Enjoy the marvel of mathematics by exploring how to solve subtraction word problems.

Identify the Correct Expression for the Addition Scenario Worksheet

Boost addition skills with this worksheet on comparing word problems to find the correct expression.

Select the Correct Equation for Subtraction Scenarios Worksheet

Boost subtraction skills with this engaging worksheet on comparing word problems!

Represent 'Put Together' Word Problems Game

Unearth the wisdom of mathematics by learning how to represent 'Put Together' word problems.

Represent How Many More Scenarios Game

Shine bright in the math world by learning how to represent "How Many More" scenarios.

Identify the Correct Addition Scenario Worksheet

Boost your child's skills with this worksheet on comparing word problems using addition scenarios.

Subtract Using Part-Part-Whole Model Worksheet

Combine math learning with adventure by solving to subtract using 'Part-Part-Whole' model.

Addition Word Problems on Put-Together Scenarios Game

Use your skills to solve addition word problems on put-together scenarios.

Solve How Many More Word Problems Game

Enter the madness of math-multiverse by exploring how to solve "How Many More" word problems.

Select the Correct Equation for Addition Scenarios Worksheet

Boost addition skills with this worksheet on choosing the correct equation for word problems.

Solve Using Part-Part-Whole Model Worksheet

Learn subtraction at the speed of lightning by practicing to solve using 'Part-Part-Whole' model.

Represent 'Add To' Situations Game

Dive deep into the world of addition with our 'Represent 'Add To' Situations' game.

Solve How Many Fewer Word Problems Game

Enjoy the marvel of mathematics by exploring how to solve "How Many Fewer" word problems.

Complete the Part-Part-Whole Model Worksheet

Learners must complete the 'Part-Part-Whole' model to enhance their math skills.

Represent 'Put Together' Situations Game

Add more arrows to your child’s math quiver by representing 'Put Together' situations.

Solve Difference Unknown Scenarios Game

Kids must solve difference unknown scenarios to practice subtraction.

Part-Part-Whole Model Worksheet

In this worksheet, learners will get to practice the 'Part-Part-Whole' model.

Word Problems to Add Multiples of 10 Game

Learn to solve word problems to add multiples of 10.

Solve Scenarios with 'Difference Unknown' Game

Shine bright in the math world by learning how to solve scenarios with 'Difference Unknown'.

Solve Addition Word Problems Worksheet

Assess your math skills by solving addition word problems in this worksheet.

Write Subtraction Equation using Clues Worksheet

Assess your math skills by writing subtraction equations using clues.

Word Problems to Add Tens to a 2-digit number Game

Make math learning fun by solving word problems to add tens to a 2-digit number.

Solve Word Problems on Add to Scenarios Game

Ask your little one to solve word problems on "Add to" scenarios to play this game.

Part-Part-Whole Model Problems Worksheet

Print this worksheet to practice 'Part-Part-Whole' model problems like a math legend!

Solve Subtraction Word Problems Worksheet

Assess your math skills by solving subtraction word problems in this worksheet.

Solve Word Problems on Put together Scenarios Game

Practice the superpower of addition by learning to solve word problems on "Put together" scenarios.

Solve Word Problems with Add to Scenarios Game

Shine bright in the math world by learning how to solve word problems with "Add to" scenarios.

Represent the Given Situation as Addition Sentence Worksheet

Learners must represent the given situation as an addition sentence to enhance their math skills.

Identify Clues to Solve the Word Problems Worksheet

Reveal the secrets of math wizardry by identifying clues to solve word problems.

Solve Addition Problems Using Bar Model Worksheet

Dive into this fun-filled worksheet by practicing to solve addition problems using bar models.

Story Problems on Comparison Worksheet

Print this worksheet to practice story problems on comparison like a math legend!

Use Bar Model to Solve Addition Story Problems Worksheet

Dive into this fun-filled printable worksheet by using bar models to solve addition story problems.

Real-Life Scenarios as Subtraction Sentence Worksheet

In this worksheet, learners will get to practice real-life scenarios as subtraction sentences.

Creating Addition Story Problems Worksheet

Help your child revise addition by creating addition story problems.

Solve Subtraction Problems Using Bar Model Worksheet

Combine math learning with adventure by solving subtraction problems using bar models.

Make a Model to Represent the Problem Worksheet

Reveal the secrets of math wizardry by practicing to make a model to represent the given problem.

Solving Story Problems on Subtraction Worksheet

Learn subtraction at the speed of lightning by solving story problems on subtraction.

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Free Printable Two-Step Word Problems Worksheets for 2nd Grade

Math Two-Step Word Problems: Discover an extensive collection of free printable worksheets for Grade 2 students, created by Quizizz to enhance their problem-solving skills and mathematical understanding.

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Two-Step Word Problems worksheets for Grade 2 are an excellent resource for teachers looking to challenge their students' math skills and enhance their problem-solving abilities. These worksheets focus on math word problems that require students to use addition and subtraction to solve real-life situations. By incorporating grade-appropriate language and relatable scenarios, these worksheets help students develop a strong foundation in math while also improving their critical thinking and reasoning skills. Teachers can use these addition word problems worksheets to supplement their existing math curriculum, provide extra practice for struggling students, or even as a fun and engaging activity for the whole class. With a variety of problems and difficulty levels, Two-Step Word Problems worksheets for Grade 2 are a valuable tool for any teacher looking to improve their students' math skills.

Quizizz is an innovative platform that offers a wide range of educational resources, including Two-Step Word Problems worksheets for Grade 2, to help teachers create engaging and interactive learning experiences for their students. By integrating Quizizz into their lesson plans, teachers can easily access and assign math word problems, track student progress, and even create their own custom quizzes to target specific skills or concepts. In addition to addition word problems, Quizizz also offers resources for other math topics, as well as subjects like science, social studies, and language arts. This comprehensive platform allows teachers to seamlessly incorporate technology into their classrooms, providing students with a fun and interactive way to learn and practice essential skills. With Quizizz, teachers can be confident that they are providing their Grade 2 students with the tools they need to succeed in math and beyond.

Real-life word problems

Common Core Standards: Grade 2 Operations & Algebraic Thinking , Grade 2 Measurement & Data

CCSS.Math.Content.2.OA.A.1, CCSS.Math.Content.2.MD.C.8

This worksheet originally published in Math Made Easy for 3rd Grade by © Dorling Kindersley Limited .

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Mixed grade 2 word problems

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Home » Teacher & Parents Tips » Math Made Easy: Helping Grade 2 Students Thrive in Problem Solving

Math Made Easy: Helping Grade 2 Students Thrive in Problem Solving

Mathematics is an essential subject that students cannot afford to neglect. As early as grade 2, students are introduced to the basics of mathematical concepts such as numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. An essential aspect of mathematics is problem-solving. While many students find it challenging, it can be made easy with the right approach. This article will discuss how parents and educators can turn problem-solving woes into victories and equip their grade 2 students with the skills needed to excel in math.

Table of Contents

The Importance of Problem Solving in Grade 2 Math

Problem-solving is an essential skill that students need to master to excel in math. It involves critical thinking, analysis, and decision-making. It also helps students develop their reasoning abilities and enables them to apply logic in real-life situations. In grade 2 math, problem-solving skills are essential as they help students understand mathematical concepts better. Students who can solve problems are more confident and enjoy math more than those who struggle.

Turning Problem-Solving Woes into Victories

Many students, especially in grade 2, find problem-solving challenging. However, with the right approach, it can be turned into a victory. One way to turn problem-solving woes into victories is by breaking down the problem into smaller parts. Encourage your child to read the problem carefully and identify the key elements. Once they have identified these elements, they can begin to solve the problem step by step. This approach helps students understand the problem better and reduces anxiety.

Another way to turn problem-solving woes into victories is by practicing regularly. The more students practice, the more comfortable they become with problem-solving. Encourage your child to practice regularly and provide them with different types of problems to solve. As they solve more problems, their confidence will increase, and they will become more efficient problem-solvers.

Strategies for Effective Problem Solving in Math

There are several strategies that students can use to solve problems effectively. One of the most effective strategies is the use of visual aids. Encourage your child to draw diagrams or pictures to help them understand the problem better. This approach helps students visualize the problem and enables them to make better decisions.

Another strategy is to use real-life situations to solve problems. This approach helps students understand how math can be applied in real-life situations. For example, if you want to teach your child about fractions, you can use pizza slices to help them understand the concept better.

Lastly, encourage your child to work with a partner or in a group. Group work helps students learn from one another and can be an effective way to solve problems. It also helps students develop their social skills and enables them to work collaboratively.

Fun and Engaging Math Activities for Grade 2 Students

Learning math can be fun and engaging. There are several math activities that parents and educators can use to help grade 2 students develop their problem-solving skills. One such activity is math games. Games such as Sudoku, Math Bingo, and Math Jeopardy can be used to teach students math concepts while making learning fun.

Another activity is math puzzles. Puzzles such as crosswords, word searches, and logic puzzles can be used to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, math stories can be used to teach math concepts while making learning fun. Math stories can be found in storybooks or online, and they provide an interactive way to teach math concepts.

Developing Critical Thinking Skills through Math

Mathematics is an excellent way to develop critical thinking skills. Critical thinking involves analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating information to make informed decisions. In math, critical thinking is essential as it helps students understand mathematical concepts and apply them in real-life situations.

Encourage your child to think critically when solving problems. Teach them to ask questions and to consider different solutions to a problem. Additionally, encourage them to explain their reasoning and to justify their solutions. These skills are essential in problem-solving and can be applied in other areas of their lives.

Providing Support and Encouragement for your Child

Providing support and encouragement is essential when helping your grade 2 child excel in math. Encourage your child to ask questions and to seek help when they need it. Additionally, provide them with a positive learning environment and praise their efforts and progress. Celebrate their successes and encourage them to keep learning and practicing.

Equipping Your Child for Math Success in Grade 2

Mathematics is an essential subject that requires problem-solving skills. By turning problem-solving woes into victories, providing support and encouragement, and using effective strategies and fun activities, parents and educators can help grade 2 students excel in math. With the right approach, learning math can be fun and engaging while developing critical thinking skills that are essential in all areas of life.

2nd Grade Fast Math Success Workbook

2nd Grade Fast Math Success Workbook: Math Worksheets Grade 2: Numeration, Addition, Subtraction, Telling Time and More with Answers

• Comparing Numbers Within 200
• Ordering Numbers Within 200
• Skip Counting: Count By 1s and 2s
• Place Value: Ones, Tens, and Hundreds
• Addition: 1 through 100
• Subtraction: 1 through 100
• Addition: Missing Number – 1 through 100
• Subtraction: Missing Number – 1 through 100
• Ordering Numbers – 1 through 1000
• Comparing Numbers – 1 through 1000
• Counting: Count by 4 to 6
• Addition and Subtraction: Double Digit
• Addition and Subtraction: Missing Number – Double Digit
• Addition: Triple Addend – 1 through 100
• Mixed Operations: 1 through 100
• Write the Numbers Before, After, and Between
• Addition and Subtraction: 1 through 1000
• Telling Time
• Time Passages
• Addition and Subtraction Games
• Final Review

MathBear: Math Workbook Grade 2

MathBear: Math Workbook Grade 2: 2nd Grade Math Workbook: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Numeration with Answers

Math Practice Workbook Grade 2

Math Practice Workbook Grade 2: 3051 Questions to Master Essential Math Skills (Numeration, Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Telling Time and More) With Answer Key

• Circle the Numbers
• Comparing Numbers
• Addition: Double Digit
• Subtraction: Double Digit
• Addition: Missing Number
• Subtraction: Missing Number
• Number Before, After and Between
• Addition: Triple Digit
• Subtraction: Triple Digit
• Basic Multiplication

MathBear: Homeschool Math Workbook Grade 2

MathBear: Homeschool Math Workbook Grade 2: 2nd Grade Homeschool Math Practice Workbook: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Place Value with Answers

• Place Value
• Commutative Property
• Addition Games
• Subtraction Games

MathBear: Math Curriculum Workbook Grade 2

MathBear: Math Curriculum Workbook Grade 2: 2nd Grade Math Curriculum: Numeration, Place Value, Addition and Subtraction, Telling Time with Answers

• Ordering Numbers
• Number Before, After, or Between
• Number Lines
• Place Value: Ones, Tens, Hundreds
• Subtraction
• Addition: 3 Addend
• Introduction to Multiplication
• Measure the Rectangles
• Match the Answers

MathBear: Math Practice Grade 2

MathBear: Math Practice Grade 2: 2nd Grade Math Practice Workbook: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Place Value, Telling Time, Commutative Property with Answers

MathBear: Math Skills Workbook Grade 2

MathBear: Math Skills Workbook Grade 2: 2nd Grade Math Skills Practice Workbook: Addition, Subtraction, Basic Multiplication, Place Value, Math Games, and More With Answers

All Seasons Math Tests Grade 2

All Seasons Math Tests Grade 2 (Student's Edition): 100 Math Practice Pages Grade 2: Timed Math Tests: For Classroom and Homeschool

Kids Math Book Ages 6-8

Kids Math Book Ages 6-8: Math Practice workbook Grade 1-3: Addition, Subtraction, Place Value, Telling Time

• Addition Target
• Subtraction Target
• Addition Square
• Ordering Numbers: 1 to 100
• Addition Table
• Subtraction Table
• Addition: Triple Addend
• Numbers Before, After, and Between
• What time was and will it be?

Math Workbook Grade 2: Addition and Subtraction

MathBear: Math Workbook Grade 2: Addition and Subtraction: 2nd Grade Double Digit Addition and Subtraction Workbook with Answers

• Addition: within 100
• Subtraction: within 100
• Basic Addition with Regrouping
• Basic Subtraction with Regrouping

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Grade 2 Word Problems

Free grade 2 word problems to help your students in mathematics. These free worksheets will help your students apply their knowledge to problem solve. Word Problems are often a challenge for students. They can comfortably do simple equations, but struggle to apply that knowledge to solve real life situations. It is important to do word problems daily to ensure your students get the repetition they need. Use these free worksheets to help you! They are scaled easy to hard (left to right).

Click to Preview.

Addition Word Problems

A bundle of the 3 resources.

Grade 2 & 3

A bundle of 6 Grade 2 & 3 resources. Click to Preview.

Subtraction Word Problems

3 weeks of free daily mental maths. Click to Preview.

10 weeks of daily mental maths. Click to Preview.

70 weeks of grade 2 & 3 mental maths. Click to Preview.

Grade 3 Word Problems | Draw a Picture

Word problems in grade 3 are very important. These 20 grade 3 word problems will engage students as they draw pictures to solve the questions! Drawing pictures is an effective strategy for solving problems in Mathematics. As students get older, they begin to visualize word problems. Drawing is the foundation for this! Get your students engaged in Mathematics with drawing during problem solving!

I hope you find it helpful!

Grade 4/5 Word Problem Task Cards

Daily Math Word Problems are vital to student development in Mathematics. This resource has 50 task cards, available in worksheet form with answers. Applying mathematical knowledge to solve word problems is extremely important. Some students understand how to solve equations but struggle to apply their knowledge when solving word problems. Doing daily word problems has helped my class a lot and I hope these flash cards will help yours!

Need More Grade 2 Worksheets?

For more grade 2 worksheets, check out grade 2 mental maths . There are some great worksheets there! For more 2nd grade worksheets, check out Dad Worksheets . They have a bunch of wonderful free worksheets that are helpful and easy to access. 

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Teaching 2nd Grade Word Problems

Teaching word problems.

Word problems was one of the biggest units I taught in 2 nd grade, and I know firsthand that teaching word problems to 2nd graders can be challenging. But as challenging as it can be, it is also extremely important. Word problems are a key skill for students and should be taught and reviewed throughout the entire year.

Before we talk about teaching 2nd grade word problems, let’s look at where students should be when they enter 2nd grade and how to handle below level students.

What First Graders Should Know

Students entering the 2nd grade should have the following skills:

• Solve word problems up to 20 using addition and subtraction;
• Types of word problems: adding to, taking from, putting together, taking apart, and comparing with unknowns in all positions.

At the beginning of the year, it’s beneficial to evaluate students’ understanding of adding and subtracting to 20. If they can add and subtract to 20 fluently, then move on to numbers 20-50. If there are a large group of students who still struggle, take some time to review the 1st-grade word problem standard 1.OA.A.1.

Use addition and subtraction within 20 to solve word problems involving situations of adding to, taking from, putting together, taking apart, and comparing, with unknowns in all positions.

The only difference between the 1 st and 2 nd grade standards is that 1 st grade solves up to 20, while 2 nd grade solves up to 100. So if you do need to review 1 st grade standards, you’re still covering the practical concepts of the standard, just within a limited number range.

How much time you spend on review will depend on the levels of your students. If your students need it, it is helpful to allocate the entire first cycle of teaching word problems to review, which would put this at about two weeks. That may seem like a lot of time to review, but keep in mind that during this time you are teaching students about the different types of word problems and the problem-solving process. Working with numbers under 20 makes the computation more manageable and allows students to focus on learning the types of problems and the problem-solving process.

Teaching 2nd Grade Word Problems: Day 1

Preparing for the lesson:.

• Create a poster to model a word problem. You can use my poster word problems from my 2 nd Grade Word Problem packet, or you can write your own.
• Print and laminate the Problem-Solving Process posters. Attach them to a ribbon and hang them in a convenient place where all students can see them. Make sure you can easily access the poster or move it for the lessons.
• Begin creating a “Types of Word Problems” poster. For day 1, you should include “Adding To” word problems. You will add skills to this poster as you introduce them to the students.
• Prepare one group word problem posters for each group for the students to use during group work. You can write your own problems or print one of the “adding to” poster problems in my word problem packet . A great way to engage your students is to write word problems with their names. I’ve also made my word problem packet editable, so you can type your class list and the problems will autogenerate with your class list!

Opening the Lesson:

1) introduce the standard.

Introduce the standard. Tell students that you are starting by reviewing word problems they learned in first grade. Today students will work on “Adding to” word problems. “Adding to” problems mean you start with a number of something, and more gets added to your group.

2) Introduce the Problem

Show the word problem poster. Explain that you are going to show them how to solve this problem.

• Show the problem-solving process poster. Point to the first step. Explain that first, we need to read the problem and visualize it. Then model the skill by reading the problem and then explaining the picture you see in your mind.
• “Sweet Delights had 33 strawberry cupcakes. They baked 6 more. How many strawberry cupcakes does Sweet Delights have now?”
• I am imagining a cupcake shop with trays of cupcakes on the counter. They have a tray with 33 cupcakes, which is 3 rows of 10 and 1 row of 3. Next, I am imagining the baker coming out with 6 more strawberry cupcakes and adding them to the row of 3.
• Now I have visualized the problem (point to the first step on the process chart).

3) Retell for Comprehension

Next, I am going to retell the problem.

• Cover up the problem with your hands and retell the story to your class. Ask, “Did I get the gist of the problem?”

4) Identify Key Words

Now that I have retold the problem, I know I comprehend it, so I am ready to circle and underline key words. Model circling the numbers in the problem and underlining the key words.

• “Sweet Delights had (33) strawberry cupcakes. They baked (6) more . How many strawberry cupcakes does Sweet Delights have now ?”
• Check! I have circled and underlined the key words and numbers that will help me solve the problem.

5) Solving Strategy

Next, I am going to solve the problem using a strategy. For this problem, I am going to draw a picture.

• Draw a cupcake tray with 3 rows of ten circles and one row of 3 circles using a black marker.
• “I have the 33 cupcakes Sweet Delights started off with. Now, I am going to add 6 more.” Draw 6 pink circles on the tray.
• Now I have all of the strawberry cupcakes, so to answer the question “How many strawberry cupcakes does Sweet Delights have now?” I am going to count all of the cupcakes. I have 39 cupcakes.

*Note* In the beginning of 2 nd grade, drawing pictures and diagrams to solve problems is an appropriate method for solving problems. As students learn the problem-solving process, numbers will get more difficult and students should move to more efficient strategies.

6) Write Equation

Now that I have solved the problem, I am going to write an equation.

• This was an “adding to” problem, so I know this is an addition equation.

______ + _______ = ________

• Sweet Delights started with 33 strawberry cupcakes, so I know that is going to be the first number in my equation.
• Then, they added 6 more strawberry cupcakes, so I know that is going to be my second number.
• I know that after they added 6 cupcakes, they had a total of 39 strawberry cupcakes, so 39 is what comes after the equal sign.

7) Label Answer

The next step says to label my answer.

• What does 39 mean? Are there 39 puppies? Or 39 children? Maybe 39 pencils? No, it means 39 strawberry cupcakes.

8) Check Work

Now that I have my answer, you probably think I’m done, right? No! Math is awesome because we know there is often a right or wrong answer. There are lots of chances for making mistakes, but if we check our work, we will be much more confident we didn’t make a mistake.

• Model how to check your work by using a different strategy. The strategy could be using manipulatives, doing another picture, or counting on your fingers. After you’ve modeled checking your work, put a big check next to the answer to show this step is complete.

Group Work:

Now students will have a chance to try the problem-solving steps with an “adding to” problem in their groups. They will make their own poster with their groups showing all of their work. Students love to work on chart paper or large construction paper.

(Note: It is important to set expectations for group work, including all students participate and help each other. When the teacher comes over to ask a question, all group members should be able to answer.)

As each group works on their problem, rotate to ask questions to check for understanding. If students make mistakes, don’t tell them directly. Instead, expect students to “catch it” when they check their work. After students have completed all of the steps, review their poster and allow them to go over their work in markers, so it stands out. Then, I select one group to share with the class how they solved the problem.

Independent Work:

Next, students work independently on one of the 2nd grade word problems from my word problem packet . Pull students who are struggling into quick one on ones. Reteaching in small groups can also be effective, but it is usually sufficient to have students work independently while you monitor and ask questions to guide them in the right direction. Don’t forget that the goal is to get them to be more independent!

Right before the end of the work period, walk around the room one more time to observe students working. Select one student who has followed the steps and gotten the correct answer to share how they solved the problem. (Note: At the beginning of the unit I liked to purposefully select students who “get it”, but as the unit progresses, I think it is important to have students share who may have skipped a step or gotten the wrong answer.

At the beginning of this unit, I would only give students 1-2 problems to practice each day. This is of the utmost importance. Less is more because the goal is to get students to master the problem-solving process. Giving students too many problems early on can overwhelm their learning process and put too much focus on getting answers just to get it done.

Start by collecting all independent work. Then have the selected student share how they solved the problem. Initially, it is important to have the student share the whole process, but as the unit and year continue and students have mastered the process, you can shorten this by having a student share one step they did.

To ensure students have mastered the problem solving strategy, I always gave a short quiz on the last day or before beginning the next strategy. My word problem packet also includes short, 2 question quizzes so ensure your students are on track.

Building on Word Problem Skills:

Continue this routine each day, going through a different type of story problem. Here is a sample schedule:

Adding to, taking from, putting together, and taking apart problems tend to be easier for students to grasp, because they have the most exposure to these. Comparing, unknown, and multistep problems are much more challenging, so you may need a few days to focus on these.

After teaching all of the typse of problems, I assess students on 2.OA.A.1 with the number range I taught. You can find assessments for 20-50, 50-100, and 100-1,000 in word problem packet .

The Big Picture:

While teaching 2nd grade word problems throughout the year, use this same process to build on student’s problem-solving skills.

When students are learning to add and subtract to 100, do another unit on problem-solving with numbers to 100. When students are learning to add and subtract to 1,000, you can expand on the skills and do a problem-solving unit with numbers to 1,000, despite the standard only going to 100.

Other thoughts

• While teaching 2nd grade word problems, I place a strong emphasis on the problem-solving process. As students begin to understand the steps and develop their problem solving skills, it is important to give them flexibility. Everyone’s brain works differently, and we may do some steps in a different order. For example, it may make more sense for some students to write their equation before they solve the problem, but others may need to work the problem out first. Some students may circle key words while they read the problem because this helps them comprehend. Remember to remain flexible with students and don’t be afraid to suggest different approaches to help them grasp the concepts.

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Grade 2 Math Samples

Non-common core, common core, teks (for texas), algebraic reasoning unit.

• Unit Description

On the Beach

Students determine how many pink shells Kim found on the beach.

Given 20 goldfish and four fish tanks, students determine if there is an odd or even number of fish in each tank.

The Algebraic Reasoning Unit involves understanding number patterns within properties of numbers and operations in order to answer questions such as:

• How can you prove this number is odd or even?  
• How can you use the relationship between addition and subtraction to solve problems in which the unknown may be any one of the terms in the equation?  
• Give an equation in which the unknown may be any one of its terms, how can you create a situation to match it? How can you prove that your situation matches the equation?  
• How can you show ___ is an even/odd number?  
• What strategies can you use to determine a number is odd or even?  
• What happens when you add two like odd or even numbers?
• Standard Description

Barnyard Buddies

Students find the total number of legs on 8 cows and 10 chickens.

Ladybugs and Spiders

Students count the number of legs on three spiders and six ladybugs.

Use addition and subtraction within 100 to solve one- and two-step word problems involving situations of adding to, taking from, putting together, taking apart, and comparing, with unknowns in all positions, e.g., by using drawings and equations with a symbol for the unknown number to represent the problem.

Cars and Trucks

Students determine if there is the same total number of cars and trucks on the shelves.

Students determine how many nuts Sam the squirrel hides under a rock.

• Give an equation in which the unknown may be any one of its terms, how can you create a situation to match it? How can you prove that your situation matches the equation?

TEKS standards covered: 2.7A, 2.7C

Problem Solving

LATESHA ROLLE

problem solving questions

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