🔢 MathGrade 3Lesson 14
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Solve Multi-Step Word Problems

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Learning Objectives

  • 1Identify the two operations needed to solve a multi-step word problem
  • 2Solve a multi-step word problem by working through each step in order
  • 3Write a number sentence for each step of a multi-step problem
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Mini Lesson

Some problems need more than one calculation to solve. These are called multi-step word problems. You need to find the first answer, then use it to work out the second answer. Reading carefully and underlining key information helps you stay organized.

Strategy: Four Steps

  1. Read the problem carefully and underline the key numbers and words.
  2. Decide which two operations you need (e.g. addition then subtraction).
  3. Solve Step 1 and write the number sentence.
  4. Use the Step 1 answer in Step 2 and write that number sentence too.

Key Words to Watch For

  • "in all" / "total" / "altogether" usually mean addition or multiplication.
  • "left over" / "remaining" / "difference" usually mean subtraction.
  • "each" / "per" / "every" often signal multiplication or division.
  • "how many more" / "how many fewer" usually mean subtraction.
Two-Step Problem StrategyFour numbered steps for solving a two-step word problem, illustrated with arrows.Two-Step Problem Strategy1Read + underline key info2Identify 2 operations3Solve Step 14Use answer in Step 2Always write a number sentence for each step
Example: two-step problem worked step by stepA problem about a baker with 24 muffins who sells 9 and then bakes 12 more. Step 1: 24 minus 9 equals 15. Step 2: 15 plus 12 equals 27.Example: Step by StepA baker has 24 muffins. She sells 9,then bakes 12 more. How many now?Step 1: Sell 9 muffins24 - 9 = 15Step 2: Bake 12 more15 + 12 = 27Answer: 27 muffins
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Write out both number sentences before you calculate anything. It helps you see the whole problem at once.

Vocabulary
Word problem
A math problem written as a storye.g. "Maria has 12 apples..." is a word problem.
Multi-step
Needing more than one step to solvee.g. Multi-step problems may need addition AND multiplication.
Operation
A math action like +, -, ×, or ÷e.g. I chose the operation of subtraction.
Equation
A math sentence with an equals signe.g. 5 + 3 = 8 is an equation.
Reasonable
An answer that makes sense for the questione.g. I check that my answer is reasonable.
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