Operation Phrase Practice

In this worksheet, you will practice identifying key operation phrases in word problems. Read each problem carefully and underline or circle the phrase that tells you which math operation to use. Then, write down the operation you think the phrase represents.

Example

Word Problem: "Lucy had 4 balloons and got 3 more from her friend."






Key operation phrase: "got 3 more"






Operation: Addition

Practice Problems

1.

Word Problem: "Max had 6 cookies and he gave 2 to his sister."






Identify the key phrase that tells you which math operation to use:






Operation:

2.

Word Problem: "There were 8 birds on a tree, and 5 flew away."






Identify the key phrase that helps you decide what to do with the numbers:






Operation:

3.

Word Problem: "Emma has 7 pencils, and she found 3 more in her drawer."






Which phrase shows the math operation you need to perform?






Operation:

4.

Word Problem: "There were 10 apples on the tree and 4 apples fell down."






Underline the words that tell you how to solve the problem:






Operation:

Great job! Continue practicing by reading each problem carefully and remembering the key operation phrases.

Phrase Detective Game

In this fun and interactive game, students become 'Phrase Detectives' as they search for clues in word problems. Working in pairs or small groups, they will match key operation phrases with the correct math operations.

Instructions:

1. Form Groups:

   • Divide the class into small groups or pairs.

2. Distribute Materials:

   • Provide each group with a set of cards or a worksheet that includes various word problems and a list of operation phrases (e.g., "more than", "gave away", "found/received").
   • You can use the Operation Phrase Practice worksheet for reference if needed.

3. Detective Work:

   • Each group reads a word problem carefully.
   • They discuss and underline or highlight the phrase that indicates the math operation to use.
   • Then, they match the identified phrase with the correct operation (e.g., "more than" corresponds to Addition, "gave away" corresponds to Subtraction).

4. Game Challenge:

   • After each group has worked through their set of problems, bring the class together.
   • Ask each group to share one word problem and explain how they identified the key phrase and matched it to the correct operation.
   • Encourage other groups to ask clarifying questions or add observations.

5. Review and Reflect:

   • Once all groups have presented, ask the students to reflect on how identifying these phrases helped them understand the word problems better.
   • Have a brief class discussion by asking questions like:
     • "What clues do you look for when reading a word problem?"
       
       
       
       
       
       
     • "How did you decide which operation to use?"
       
       
       
       
       
       

6. Closing:

   • End the session by congratulating all of your 'Phrase Detectives' for their great teamwork and problem-solving skills!

Enjoy the game and remember: every word is a clue to solving the mystery of the math problem!