Grade 3

Grade 3Number Sense and NumerationOperations with Whole Numbers


Word Problems with Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division


Understanding mathematics in the form of word problems is an important part of learning for young students. It not only helps improve logical and critical thinking skills but also enhances their ability to apply mathematical knowledge in real-world situations.

Word problems with addition

Addition word problems are situations where you bring different objects or numbers together. When solving such word problems, look for words or phrases like 'totally', 'combined', 'overall', 'sum' or 'adding up'. These are signs that addition is required. Let's look at some examples:

Example 1:
Emma has 8 apples, and her friend gives her 5 more. How many apples does Emma have now?

8 + 5 = 13

Emma now has 13 apples.

Example 2:
There are 23 students in class A and 17 students in class B. How many students are there in total?

23 + 17 = 40

There are total 40 students.

8 + 5 = 13 apples

Word problems with subtraction

Subtraction word problems involve finding or subtracting the difference between numbers. Key phrases to identify a subtraction problem include 'how many more are left', 'remaining', 'after giving' and 'difference'. Here are some subtraction examples:

Example 1:
Michael had 10 toy cars. He gave 3 toy cars to his friend. How many toy cars does he have left?

10 - 3 = 7

Michael has 7 toy cars left.

Example 2:
There were 30 candies in the jar. After the party, 16 candies were left. How many candies were eaten?

30 - 16 = 14

14 candies were eaten.

30 - 3 = 27 candies

Word problems with multiplication

Multiplication word problems are used when there are groups of objects or numbers that need to be multiplied. Words and phrases such as 'times', 'group', 'each', 'total' and 'denominator' can indicate multiplication. Let's work through some examples:

Example 1:
There are 4 baskets containing 5 apples each. How many apples are there in total?

4 x 5 = 20

There are 20 apples in total.

Example 2:
There are 6 coaches in a train, and each coach can seat 10 passengers. How many passengers in total can sit in the train?

6 x 10 = 60

A total of 60 passengers can sit in the train.

4 x 5 apples

Word problems with division

Division word problems are when you divide or split something into equal parts or groups. Key phrases to look out for include 'divided by', 'per', 'out of', 'shared among' and 'each group gets'. Let's look at some examples:

Example 1:
Sarah has 20 cookies. She wants to divide them equally among 4 friends. How many cookies will each friend get?

20 ÷ 4 = 5

Each friend will get 5 cookies.

Example 2:
There are 24 pencils. They are to be packed in equal boxes, each box containing 6 pencils. How many boxes are needed?

24 ÷ 6 = 4

4 boxes are needed.

20 ÷ 4 cookies

In conclusion, word problems involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division provide students with practical ways to connect with mathematical concepts. By translating everyday situations into mathematical problems, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential beyond the classroom. Remember to identify essential key phrases and operations, use visualization if needed, and practice regularly to master these fundamental mathematical concepts.


Grade 3 → 1.2.6


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