Addition and subtraction word problems
Solve addition and subtraction word problems within 10 using objects or drawings
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Teaching Table · Reviewed guide
Set out your lesson
“Word problems are number stories. First we hear the story, then we build it with objects or a drawing, then we count to answer. Stay within 10 today.”
Bring to the table
- 10 large blocks, toys, or paper circles
- Paper and crayon
Full guide and materials
- 10 large blocks, toys, or paper circles
- Paper and crayon
- Step 1. Read: “There are 7 birds on a fence and 3 fly away. How many are left?”
- Step 2. Child sets out 7 objects, removes 3, and counts the remainder.
- Step 3. Read: “There are 4 red blocks and you get 2 blue blocks. How many in all?”
- Step 4. Child combines the groups or draws them and counts the total.
- Step 5. Have your child retell one story in numbers, such as “7 take away 3 is 4.”
- Quick check. Success means your child correctly models and answers one addition story and one subtraction story within 10 using objects or drawings.
Worked example. 7 birds, 3 fly away → remove 3 from 7 → 4 left. 4 and 2 more → 6 in all.
Optional challenge. Try a result-unknown take-apart story: “There are 5 fish. Some swim away and 3 are left. How many swam away?” Build it with objects.
What to notice. Save a photo of one modeled problem or a parent note with both stories and answers.
Compare teaching approaches
Teaching approaches
Gakuva’s recommended starting approach is selected. You can still compare every option.
1 approach
Word problems are number stories. First we hear the story, then we build it with objects or a drawing, then we count to answer. Stay within 10 today.
Spend about 10–15 minutes solving one take-from story and one put-together story within 10.
Family records and proof options
Keep a record of your learning
Save photos, notes, and attendance. Export a proof packet for compliance or portfolio reviews.
Learning resources
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Check understanding
- Solve 'There are 6 apples, 2 are eaten, how many left?' using counters
- Solve 'add to' and 'take from' result-unknown problems
- Solve 'put together/take apart' problems with total unknown
“If you say 'There are 7 birds on a fence and 3 fly away — how many are left?', can your child work it out using their fingers, counters, or a quick drawing?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Procedural
- Subject
- Mathematics
- Domain
- Addition & Subtraction
- Age range
- Ages 4–6
Standards