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Session 6: Word Problems-Addition & Subtraction

Session Title

Word Problem: Addition & Subtraction

Objective


  1. Understand and solve word problems based on addition and subtraction.
  2. Identify key information and decide which operation to use.
  3. Practice solving real-life problems through games and group work.

Concept

Word problems help students apply addition and subtraction to real-life situations. Understanding the context, identifying important numbers, and choosing the correct operation are key skills.

Materials Required

Board & Chalk, Flashcards with word problems, Number cards, Dice, Role-play props (toys, bags, money), Chart paper

Methodology

Activity-based Learning: Word problem solving through games and group challenges. Experiential Learning: Situational math practice with discussion and visual tools.

Session Duration

 120 Minutes

Introduction  Activity (15 minutes):

WORD PROBLEM PUZZLE

Divide students into pairs. Give each pair a set of mixed-up word problems and number sentences. Their job is to match the correct problem with the right solution.

Main Activity:

Objective: Strengthen problem-solving strategies.

Group Game: ADD OR SUBTRACT? (30 minutes)

1. Read word problems aloud:

  • Tom has 6 pencils. He finds 3 more in his bag. How many pencils does he have now?
  • Sarah baked 12 cookies. She gave 4 to her friend. How many cookies does she have left?
  • There are 9 birds on a tree. 6 more come. How many birds are there now?
  • A basket had 15 oranges. 7 were taken out. How many are left?
  • Students raise cards marked '+' or '–' to show which operation to use

2. Solve together using drawings or counters.

3. Role-Play Activity: REAL-LIFE STORIES (30 minutes)

Students act out short stories:

  • A child gives away some toys.
  • Friends collect flowers and count them.
  • Others write the number sentence.

Time to Solve (20 Minutes)

Worksheet with mixed word problems:

  • Circle key numbers.
  • Decide on the operation.
  • Solve using number lines or drawings.

Example Problems:

  1. Ravi had 10 chocolates. He ate 3. How many left?
  2. There are 12 girls and 7 boys in class. How many students in total?
  3. A basket had 15 oranges. 5 were taken. How many remain?

Review Questions :

Ask:

    • What clues tell you to add or subtract?
    • Did you find any trick questions?
    • How does acting out help you solve word problems?

Follow-up Tasks:

Homework:

  1. Write 2 addition and 2 subtraction word problems from real life.
  2. Solve and explain which operation you used and why.
  3. Draw one of your word problems with a picture.

Expected Learning  Outcome:

Knowledge building:

  • Understanding how to decode and solve word problems.
  • Recognition of addition vs subtraction in context.

Skill Building:

  • Reading comprehension
  • Logical reasoning
  • Group collaboration
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