Teacher Script: Word Problem Whiz Kids

Session 1: Introduction to Word Problems & Identifying Key Information

(Warm-Up - 5 min)

"Good morning, future Math Detectives! Let's get our brains warmed up. Look at the problem on the board: Warm Up - Daily Problem. 'There are 4 red pencils and 3 blue pencils. Are there more red or blue pencils?' Take a minute to think about it. You can use your fingers or draw a quick picture."

"Okay, what did you find? [Pause for answers] Great! Today, we're starting a super important mission: becoming Word Problem Whiz Kids! We're going to learn how to solve number stories, and it's going to be so much fun. Solving these stories helps us with math in real life, like when you need to figure out how many cookies you have left or how many friends are coming to your party."

(Introduction - 10 min - using Word Problem Whiz Kids Slide Deck Slides 1-3)

"Let's look at our first slide: Word Problem Whiz Kids Slide Deck (Slide 1). 'Welcome, Math Detectives!' That's you! Every word problem is like a mini-mystery. Our job is to find the clues to solve it."

"(Slide 2) 'What's the Story?' Every word problem tells a story. And hidden in that story are important numbers and a question. Our job is to find them! Why do you think it's important to find the numbers and the question? [Pause for answers, guide to: 'so we know what to do!']"

"(Slide 3) 'Clue #1: Find the Numbers'. Let's read this story together: 'Lily has 3 red apples and 2 green apples. How many apples does she have in all?' First, let's find the numbers. Who can tell me a number they hear? [Call on students to identify '3' and '2'. Underline them on the slide/board.] Excellent! Now, what is the question asking us to find? [Call on student to identify 'How many apples does she have in all?'. Circle it on the slide/board.] Why is it important to know what the question is asking? [Guide to: 'It tells us if we need to add or subtract, or compare!']"

(Guided Practice - 10 min)

"Now, let's try a few more together. I'm going to give you some manipulatives – like these counting bears – they are our math tools! Let's try this one: 'Tom has 4 blue balloons and 2 yellow balloons. How many balloons does Tom have altogether?' First, what are our numbers? [Wait for '4' and '2'.] And what is the question asking? [Wait for 'How many altogether?'] What do you think 'altogether' means we should do? Add or subtract? [Guide to 'add'.] Use your bears to show 4, then add 2 more. What do you get? [Wait for '6'.] So, 4 + 2 = 6! Tom has 6 balloons altogether. Great job!"

"Let's do another: 'Mia has 7 stickers. Her friend gives her 3 more stickers. How many stickers does Mia have in all?' Numbers? Question? What operation? Solve it with your bears! [Circulate, support, check answers.]"

(Cool-Down - 5 min)

"You all did fantastic today! For our Cool Down - Exit Ticket today, I'm going to give you a word problem. I just want you to underline the numbers and circle the question. You don't have to solve it yet! 'There are 6 birds in a tree. 2 birds fly away. How many birds are left?' When you're done, put it in the basket. Awesome work, everyone!"

Session 2: Solving Addition Word Problems (No Unknowns)

(Warm-Up - 5 min)

"Welcome back, Math Whiz Kids! Let's start with our Warm Up - Daily Problem. 'What is 5 + 4?' Think about it, then tell me your answer! [Wait for '9'.] Super! Today, we're going to keep building our skills with addition word problems. We're going to focus on solving them!"

(Review & Instruction - 10 min - using Word Problem Whiz Kids Slide Deck Slides 4-6)

"Remember yesterday we talked about clues? (Slide 4) 'Adding Up the Fun!' When we see words like 'in all' or 'altogether,' it's a big clue that we need to add. Why do you think those words mean 'add'? [Guide to: 'putting things together, getting a total!']"

"(Slide 5) 'Let's Solve: Addition!' Let's read this story: 'Tom has 5 toy cars. His friend gives him 3 more. How many toy cars does Tom have now?' We already know the numbers are 5 and 3, and the question is 'How many now?'. We know we need to add. We can use a number line to help us. Let's start at 5 and jump 3 times. Where do we land? [Model on number line, guide to '8'.] So, 5 + 3 = 8! Tom has 8 toy cars now."

"(Slide 6) 'Another Addition Adventure!' Here's another: 'There are 7 birds on a branch. 4 more birds fly to the branch. How many birds are there in total?' First, what are the numbers? [7, 4] What's the question? [How many in total?] And what operation? [Add.] Take out your manipulatives or draw a picture in your notebook. Show me how you'd solve this. [Circulate, provide support, ensure students are using strategies correctly.] What's the answer? [Wait for '11'.]"

(Independent Practice - 10 min)

"You're doing fantastic! Now, it's your turn to be independent math detectives. I have some Word Problem Worksheets for you. I want you to complete the first 2-3 problems. Remember to underline the numbers, circle the question, and then use your manipulatives or a number line to solve! If you get stuck, remember our clues and strategies. I'll be walking around to help everyone. [Circulate, provide individual help and encouragement, check progress.]"

(Cool-Down - 5 min)

"Alright, let's wrap up this session! For your Cool Down - Exit Ticket today, you'll find one addition word problem. I want you to solve it and show me your answer. Put it in the basket when you're done! Excellent work today, everyone!"

Session 3: Solving Subtraction Word Problems (No Unknowns)

(Warm-Up - 5 min)

"Good morning, Math Masters! Let's kick off with our Warm Up - Daily Problem. 'What is 8 - 3?' Think, then share! [Wait for '5'.] Fantastic! Today, we're going to dive into subtraction word problems. We'll learn how to take things away in our number stories."

(Review & Instruction - 10 min - using Word Problem Whiz Kids Slide Deck Slides 7-9)

"(Slide 7) 'Subtracting to Find Out!' Just like 'in all' means add, there are words that tell us to subtract! What words do you think tell us we need to subtract? [Guide to: 'left,' 'take away,' 'flew away,' 'how many more/less'.] These words tell us that something is being removed or we are finding the difference between two groups."

"(Slide 8) 'Let's Solve: Subtraction!' Here's a story: 'Maria had 10 cookies. She ate 3 cookies. How many cookies does Maria have left?' Numbers? [10, 3] Question? [How many left?] What operation? [Subtract.] If Maria had 10 and ate 3, did she get more or have less? [Less.] So, 10 - 3 = ? Let's use our number line. Start at 10 and jump back 3 times. Where do you land? [Model, guide to '7'.] Maria has 7 cookies left."

"(Slide 9) 'Subtraction Story Time!' Another one: 'There are 12 balloons. 5 balloons fly away. How many balloons are left?' This time, I want you to work with a partner to solve it. One person can identify the numbers and question, and the other can solve using manipulatives. Then switch roles! [Circulate, listen to discussions, offer guidance on how to explain their thinking.] What did you and your partner find? [Wait for '7'.] How did you solve it? [Listen to different strategies.]"

(Independent Practice - 10 min)

"You're doing awesome with subtraction! Now, back to our Word Problem Worksheets. Please complete the next 2-3 subtraction problems. Remember our steps: underline, circle, then solve! If you need a number line or manipulatives, they are here for you. I'm here to help if you get stuck! [Circulate, provide one-on-one support, observe strategies.]"

(Cool-Down - 5 min)

"Time for our cool-down! Your Cool Down - Exit Ticket today has one subtraction word problem. Solve it and show your work! Great job tackling subtraction today!"

Session 4: Introduction to Word Problems with Unknowns

(Warm-Up - 5 min)

"Hello, Super Solvers! Let's get our brains moving with our Warm Up - Daily Problem. 'What number comes after 7 but before 9?' [Wait for '8'.] Excellent! Today, we're going to become even more amazing detectives. Sometimes, a number in our story goes missing! We'll learn how to find it."

(Review & Instruction - 10 min - using Word Problem Whiz Kids Slide Deck Slides 10-12)

"(Slide 10) 'The Mysterious Unknown!' Look at this slide. What if a number is missing from our story? We become super detectives to find the 'unknown' number! An 'unknown' is just a number we don't know yet, and it's our job to find it. It's like a puzzle!"

"(Slide 11) 'Finding the Missing Piece (Addition)'. Let's read: 'Sam has 6 stickers. He gets some more stickers. Now he has 9 stickers. How many stickers did Sam get?' What numbers do we know? [6 and 9.] What's missing? [How many more he got.] We can write this as an addition problem with a missing part: 6 + ? = 9. How can we find the missing number? We can count on from 6 until we get to 9. Let's try: 6... 7, 8, 9. How many fingers did I put up? [3.] So, Sam got 3 more stickers! 6 + 3 = 9. You can also use your manipulatives! Start with 6, add until you get to 9, then count how many you added."

"(Slide 12) 'Finding the Missing Piece (Subtraction)'. Here's a subtraction mystery: 'There were 12 birds in a tree. Some birds flew away. Now there are 8 birds left. How many birds flew away?' What do we know? [12 and 8.] What's the unknown? [How many flew away.] So, 12 - ? = 8. How can we solve this? We can count back from 12 until we get to 8. Or, we can think, 'If I have 8, how many more do I need to get to 12?' Let's count on from 8 to 12: 8... 9, 10, 11, 12. How many did we count? [4.] So, 4 birds flew away! 12 - 4 = 8. You can also use your manipulatives for this!"

(Guided Practice - 10 min)

"Let's practice these unknowns together. 'Sarah had 5 candies. Her mom gave her some more. Now Sarah has 10 candies. How many did her mom give her?' Talk to your partner. What's the equation? What's the unknown? How will you solve it? [Circulate, listen, guide. Encourage counting on or using manipulatives.] What did you find? [5.] Great! 5 + 5 = 10."

"Another one: 'There were 9 apples in a basket. Some rolled out. Now there are 6 apples left. How many rolled out?' What's the equation? [9 - ? = 6] What's the unknown? How will you solve? [Circulate, guide. Encourage counting back or finding the difference.] What did you find? [3.] Excellent! 9 - 3 = 6."

(Cool-Down - 5 min)

"Awesome work today with finding unknowns! For your Cool Down - Exit Ticket, I'll give you one problem with an unknown. I want you to write the equation and tell me if the unknown is a part of an addition problem or a part of a subtraction problem. You don't have to solve it yet! 'I had 7 toys. I lost some. Now I have 4. How many did I lose?' Great job, everyone!"

Session 5: Comparing Sets Within 20

(Warm-Up - 5 min)

"Good morning, Math Explores! Let's warm up our brains with our Warm Up - Daily Problem. 'Which is bigger: 15 or 12?' [Wait for '15'.] You got it! Today, we're going to compare sets of things. We'll learn how to tell if one group has more, less, or the same as another group."

(Introduction - 10 min - using Word Problem Whiz Kids Slide Deck Slides 13-15)

"(Slide 13) 'Comparing Our Collections!' Look around the room. Do you have more crayons or markers in your pencil box? Sometimes we need to compare to see which group is bigger or smaller. We do this all the time!"

"(Slide 14) 'More, Less, or Equal?' Let's look at this slide. Group A has 7 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. Group B has 5 moons 🌙🌙🌙🌙🌙. Which group has MORE? [Stars.] Which group has LESS? [Moons.] How do you know? [Guide to '7 is a bigger number than 5'.] Excellent!"

"(Slide 15) 'Our Comparison Symbols!' Math has special symbols to help us compare. We have the > symbol, which means 'greater than'. It's like a hungry alligator that always wants to eat the bigger number! We have the < symbol, which means 'less than'. The alligator's mouth is still trying to eat the bigger number, but now it's facing the other way. And we have the = symbol, which means 'equal to'. That means both sides are the same, like two friends who are the same height."

"Let's practice! Is 8 > 5 or 8 < 5? [8 > 5]. Is 3 > 7 or 3 < 7? [3 < 7]. What about 6 and 6? [6 = 6]. Great job!"

(Activity - 10 min)

"Now, let's do a fun activity called Comparing Sets Activity! I have these cards with different numbers of dots or pictures. I want you to pick two cards, count the items on each, and then use your comparison symbols (> < =) to show which card has more, less, or if they are equal. Work with your partner, and tell each other why you chose that symbol. [Circulate, observe, correct use of symbols, prompt discussion.]"

(Cool-Down - 5 min)

"Fantastic comparing today! For your Cool Down - Exit Ticket today, I want you to compare two numbers: 14 and 18. Use one of our symbols (>, <, or =) to show which is greater or less. Great job, everyone!"

Session 6: Mixed Word Problem Practice & Strategy Review

(Warm-Up - 5 min)

"Good morning, Math Explorers! Let's wake up our brains with a quick warm-up on Warm Up - Daily Problem. 'If you have 6 apples and give away 2, how many are left?' [Wait for '4'.] Super! Today, we're going to put all our word problem skills together! We'll practice addition, subtraction, and finding unknowns, all mixed up."

(Review & Guided Practice - 10 min - using Word Problem Whiz Kids Slide Deck Slide 16)

"(Slide 16) 'Time to Review!' We've learned so much! We know how to find the numbers and the question. We know clues for adding like 'in all' and 'altogether'. We know clues for subtracting like 'left' and 'fly away'. We even know how to find a missing number, an 'unknown'! And we can compare groups using our symbols > < =."

"The trickiest part now is figuring out what operation to use when they're all mixed up. So, when you read a word problem today, I want you to ask yourself these questions:

1. What numbers are in the story?
2. What is the question asking me to do?
3. Am I putting things together (add), taking things away (subtract), or finding a missing part?"

"Let's try a few together. 'There were 8 birds on a wire. 3 birds flew away. How many birds are left?' Numbers? Question? Add or subtract? [Subtract.] Solve! [5.] Excellent."

"'Lisa had some crayons. Her friend gave her 4 more. Now she has 10 crayons. How many did Lisa start with?' Numbers? Question? Unknown? Add or subtract? [Add with unknown start: ? + 4 = 10.] Solve! [6.] Wonderful!"

(Activity/Discussion - 10 min)

"Now, let's use our Word Problem Worksheets for some mixed practice. I want you to read the problems carefully. Before you solve, tell your partner if you think it's an addition problem, a subtraction problem, or a problem with an unknown. Explain why you think that! Then, you can both solve it. [Circulate, facilitate discussions, listen to reasoning, provide support.]"

(Cool-Down - 5 min)

"You're all becoming amazing word problem solvers! For your Cool Down - Exit Ticket today, I want you to write down one word that tells you to add and one word that tells you to subtract. See you next time!"

Session 7: Game Day! (Number Ninja Game)

(Warm-Up - 5 min)

"Welcome, Math Warriors! Let's get ready for battle with our Warm Up - Daily Problem. 'If you have 10 fingers and 10 toes, how many in all?' [Wait for '20'.] You're ready! Today is game day! We're going to play the Number Ninja Game to practice our addition, subtraction, and comparison skills in a fun way."

(Game Introduction & Play - 20 min)

"I'm so excited to play 'Number Ninja' with you! This game will help us practice everything we've learned in a super engaging way. I'm going to explain the rules. [Explain the rules of the Number Ninja game as detailed in the game material, focusing on clear steps and how to earn points. Model a round or two.] Now, let's get into our teams and start playing! Remember to think about your strategies, help your teammates, and have fun! [Facilitate game play, keep time, help with questions, encourage good sportsmanship.]"

(Cool-Down - 5 min)

"What a fantastic game, Number Ninjas! For your Cool Down - Exit Ticket today, I want you to tell me one thing you learned or practiced during the game. It could be about adding, subtracting, or comparing. Great energy today, everyone!"

Session 8: Deep Dive into Comparison & Problem Solving with Journals

(Warm-Up - 5 min)

"Good morning, Reflective Thinkers! Let's warm up with our Warm Up - Daily Problem. 'Which is less: 19 or 11?' [Wait for '11'.] Awesome! Today, we're going to think even deeper about comparing numbers and solving problems. We'll be using our Math Reflection Journal to write down our thoughts."

(Discussion & Journaling - 20 min)

"Sometimes, word problems ask us to compare. Like, 'How many more?' or 'How many fewer?' When we see those questions, we usually subtract to find the difference between the two numbers. Why do you think subtraction helps us find 'how many more' or 'how many fewer'? [Guide to: 'It tells us the gap between the numbers.']"

"Let's try a problem: 'There are 15 red flowers and 8 yellow flowers. How many more red flowers are there than yellow flowers?' What numbers? [15, 8] What's the question? [How many more red flowers?] What operation? [Subtract.] Solve! [7.] So there are 7 more red flowers."

"Now, let's open our Math Reflection Journal. I want you to respond to this prompt: 'Think about a time you had to compare two groups of something in real life. What were you comparing? How did you figure out which had more or less?' Take your time to write your thoughts. It's okay if it's not perfect, just get your ideas down. [Circulate, provide individual help with writing, prompt deeper thinking.]"

(Cool-Down - 5 min)

"Wonderful reflections today! For your Cool Down - Exit Ticket, write down one new thing you learned about comparing numbers or solving word problems today. Share your journals with me on your way out!"

Session 9: Quiz Day!

(Warm-Up - 5 min)

"Hello, Ready-to-Quiz Whiz Kids! Let's get our final warm-up in with our Warm Up - Daily Problem. 'If you have 7 cookies and eat 2, how many are left?' [Wait for '5'.] Perfect! Today is our quiz day. This is a chance for you to show me all the amazing things you've learned about word problems and comparing numbers."

(Quiz - 20 min - using Word Problem Quiz)

"(Slide 17) 'Show What You Know!' We've been working so hard on our word problems, and now it's time for our Word Problem Quiz! This quiz has different kinds of problems, just like the ones we've practiced. Remember to:

1. Read each problem carefully.
2. Underline the numbers.
3. Circle the question.
4. Decide if you need to add, subtract, or find an unknown.
5. Show your work!

Do your best, take your time, and don't rush. If you have a question about what a word means, you can ask me. [Distribute quizzes. Circulate quietly, ensuring students are working independently. Remind them to show their work.]"

(Cool-Down - 5 min)

"Great effort on the quiz, everyone! For your Cool Down - Exit Ticket today, tell me one strategy you used on the quiz that helped you. Put your quiz in the basket and your exit ticket in the other basket. Fantastic job!"

Session 10: Test Day!

(Warm-Up - 5 min)

"Good morning, Math Champions! Today is the big day – our Word Problem Mastery Test! Let's do a quick final warm-up with our Warm Up - Daily Problem. 'What is 10 + 7?' [Wait for '17'.] You're ready!"

(Test - 20 min - using Word Problem Mastery Test)

"(Slide 18) 'The Ultimate Math Challenge!' You have all grown so much as math detectives. Today, you'll take the Word Problem Mastery Test. This is your chance to show how much you've learned throughout all our sessions. Remember everything we've practiced:

1. Read carefully!
2. Find those important numbers.
3. Understand the question.
4. Choose the right operation (add, subtract, find the unknown).
5. Use your strategies (manipulatives, number line, drawing).
6. Show your work clearly.

Take your time, breathe, and do your very best. If you need me to re-read a problem, please raise your hand quietly. [Distribute tests. Maintain a quiet testing environment. Observe students but do not provide direct assistance with answers.]"

(Cool-Down - 5 min)

"You did it! You completed the Word Problem Mastery Test! For your Cool Down - Exit Ticket today, write down one thing you are proud of accomplishing during our word problem unit. Turn in your test and exit ticket. You are all amazing Word Problem Whiz Kids!"

Word Problem Worksheets

Directions: Read each word problem carefully. Underline the important numbers and circle the question. Then, solve the problem and show your work. Don't forget to write your answer clearly!

Section 1: Addition Stories

1. Lily has 7 red flowers. She picks 5 more yellow flowers. How many flowers does Lily have in all?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

2. There are 9 birds sitting on a fence. 6 more birds come to join them. How many birds are on the fence altogether?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

3. Tom has 8 toy cars. His grandma gives him 4 new cars for his birthday. What is the total number of toy cars Tom has now?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

4. Maria baked 11 cookies on Monday. She baked 7 more cookies on Tuesday. How many cookies did Maria bake in total?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

Section 2: Subtraction Stories

1. There were 15 apples in a basket. Sarah ate 6 of the apples. How many apples are left in the basket?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

2. A tree had 13 leaves. The wind blew off 5 leaves. How many leaves are still on the tree?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

3. Sam had 18 stickers. He gave 9 stickers to his friend. How many stickers does Sam have now?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

4. There were 20 balloons at a party. 8 balloons popped. How many balloons are left?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

Section 3: Finding the Unknown

1. Maya had 8 pencils. Her friend gave her some more pencils. Now Maya has 12 pencils. How many pencils did her friend give her?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Equation:
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

2. There were some birds in a tree. 7 birds flew away. Now there are 5 birds left in the tree. How many birds were in the tree to start?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Equation:
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

3. David bought 9 toy cars. He already had some toy cars. Now he has 16 toy cars in total. How many toy cars did David have to start?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Equation:
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

4. A baker made 14 cupcakes. She sold some cupcakes. Now she has 6 cupcakes left. How many cupcakes did the baker sell?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Equation:
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

Section 4: Comparing Sets

Directions: Write the correct symbol (>, <, or =) in the box to compare the numbers.

1. 10
   
   
   7

2. 14
   
   
   19

3. 12
   
   
   12

4. 8
   
   
   16

5. 3
   
   
   13

6. 20
   
   
   11

Section 5: Mixed Practice

1. There are 6 red balloons and 9 blue balloons. How many balloons are there in all?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

2. A farmer had 17 chickens. He sold 8 chickens. How many chickens does he have left?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

3. Sarah had some crayons. She found 5 more. Now she has 13 crayons. How many crayons did Sarah start with?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Equation:
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

4. Which number is less: 16 or 11?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Answer:
   
   
   

Math Discussion Prompts: Let's Talk About Math!

Directions: Use these prompts to talk with your classmates about the math problems we are solving. Remember to listen to each other and explain your thinking clearly.

Prompt Set 1: Understanding Word Problems

1. When you first read a word problem, what is the very first thing you look for?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. How do you know if a word problem is asking you to add? What are some 'clue words' for addition?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. How do you know if a word problem is asking you to subtract? What are some 'clue words' for subtraction?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Why is it important to underline the numbers and circle the question in a word problem?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Prompt Set 2: Solving Strategies

1. When you are solving an addition word problem, what tools or strategies help you find the answer? (Think about manipulatives, drawing, number lines!)
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. When you are solving a subtraction word problem, what tools or strategies help you find the answer?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. What do you do if you read a word problem and a number seems to be missing? How do you find that 'unknown' number?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Can you explain to a friend how you solved a tricky word problem today? Walk them through your steps.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Prompt Set 3: Comparing Numbers

1. What does it mean to 'compare' two numbers or groups of objects?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. When would you use the symbol > (greater than)? Give an example.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. When would you use the symbol < (less than)? Give an example.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Why is it important to know how to compare numbers in real life? Where might you use this skill?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Prompt Set 4: Reflection and Growth

1. What was the most challenging part of solving word problems for you? How did you try to overcome it?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. What is one new thing you learned about word problems today?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. What advice would you give to another student who is just starting to learn about word problems?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. What are you most proud of in your math learning this week? Why?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Comparing Sets: More, Less, or Equal?

Objective: Students will compare two sets of objects (numbers up to 20) using the terms "more than," "less than," and "equal to," and the symbols (>, <, =).

Materials:

• Comparing Sets Activity Cards (print and cut out multiple sets)
• Large > (greater than), < (less than), and = (equal to) symbols printed on cardstock
• Optional: small whiteboards and dry-erase markers for students to write symbols

Instructions:

Part 1: Hands-On Comparison (Pairs/Small Group)

1. Preparation: Shuffle the Comparing Sets Activity Cards and place them face down in a pile. Lay out the large comparison symbols (>, <, =) in the center of the table.
2. Turn and Compare: Each student in the group picks one card from the pile. Students should count the number of items on their card.
3. Verbal Comparison: Students then compare their cards. For example, "I have 7 stars, and you have 5 moons. 7 is more than 5." or "5 is less than 7."
4. Symbol Placement: The pair then decides which comparison symbol (>, <, or =) should go between their two cards to correctly show the relationship. They physically place the symbol between their cards.
5. Discussion: Encourage students to explain why they chose that symbol. "Why did you put the '>' symbol there?" or "How do you know 12 is greater than 8?"
6. Repeat: Continue playing, drawing new cards and practicing comparisons. For students who need more support, start with numbers under 10.

Part 2: Symbol Writing Practice (Individual/Paired)

1. Draw Two Cards: Each student draws two Comparing Sets Activity Cards.
2. Write the Numbers: On their small whiteboard or in their notebook, they write down the two numbers from their cards.
3. Add the Symbol: Below the numbers, they write the correct comparison symbol (>, <, or =) between them.
4. Check with Partner: If working in pairs, they check their partner's work and discuss any differences.
5. Challenge: For an extra challenge, ask students to write a sentence describing the comparison (e.g., "15 is greater than 10.")

Differentiation:

• Support: Provide manipulatives (counting bears, blocks) for students to create the sets from their cards before comparing. Focus on verbal comparison before introducing symbols. Use cards with larger, clearer pictures for easier counting.
• Challenge: Use cards with numbers up to 20. Ask students to order three cards from least to greatest or greatest to least. Have them create their own comparison word problems using the numbers on their cards.

Number Ninja Game: Word Problem Challenge!

Objective: Students will practice solving single-step addition and subtraction word problems and comparing numbers within 20 in a fun, interactive game format.

Materials:

• Game Board (Simple path with spaces, some marked "Challenge!" or "Compare!")
• Game Pieces (one per student)
• Die (1 standard 6-sided die)
• Number Ninja Problem Cards (print and cut out)
• Answer Key for problem cards (for teacher use/self-checking)
• Small whiteboards and dry-erase markers (for showing work)
• Optional: Manipulatives (counting bears, unifix cubes)

Number of Players: 2-5 students

Game Setup:

1. Place the game board in the center of the playing area.
2. Each student chooses a game piece and places it on the "START" space.
3. Shuffle the Number Ninja Problem Cards and place them face down in a draw pile.
4. Keep the Answer Key handy for verifying answers.

How to Play:

1. Player Turn: The youngest player goes first. Play proceeds clockwise.
2. Roll and Move: On their turn, a player rolls the die and moves their game piece that many spaces along the path.
3. Draw a Card: After moving, the player draws the top card from the Number Ninja Problem Cards pile.
4. Solve the Problem:
   • Word Problem Card: If it's a word problem, the player must read it aloud (or have the teacher/a peer read it for them if needed) and solve it. They should show their work on their whiteboard or explain their strategy. Other players can silently solve along or offer support if the active player requests it.
   • Compare Card: If it's a comparison problem (e.g., "Compare 13 and 8"), the player must use the correct symbol (>, <, or =) to compare the numbers.
   • Challenge! Space: If a player lands on a "Challenge!" space, they draw two cards and choose one to solve, or solve both for an extra point (if keeping score).
   • Compare! Space: If a player lands on a "Compare!" space, they draw a comparison card (or simply compare two numbers given by the teacher/another student).
5. Check the Answer: The teacher (or a designated

Number Ninja Problem Cards

Directions: Print, cut out, and laminate these cards for the Number Ninja Game.

Card 1 (Addition Word Problem)

Sarah had 5 red pens and 4 blue pens. How many pens does she have in all?

Card 2 (Subtraction Word Problem)

There were 12 cookies on a plate. Tom ate 3 cookies. How many cookies are left?

Card 3 (Comparison)

Compare: 10 and 7

Card 4 (Addition Word Problem with Unknown)

Maria had 6 toys. Her mom gave her some more. Now she has 11 toys. How many did her mom give her?

Card 5 (Subtraction Word Problem with Unknown)

There were 15 birds in a tree. Some flew away. Now there are 9 birds left. How many birds flew away?

Card 6 (Comparison)

Compare: 14 and 14

Card 7 (Addition Word Problem)

David has 8 stickers. He earns 7 more. How many stickers does David have now?

Card 8 (Subtraction Word Problem)

Lisa had 18 balloons. 5 balloons popped. How many balloons are left?

Card 9 (Comparison)

Compare: 19 and 20

Card 10 (Addition Word Problem with Unknown)

I had some pencils. I found 3 more. Now I have 10 pencils. How many did I start with?

Card 11 (Subtraction Word Problem with Unknown)

There were 11 books on a shelf. Some fell off. Now there are 6 books left. How many fell off?

Card 12 (Comparison)

Compare: 16 and 6

Card 13 (Addition Word Problem)

Ben has 9 comic books. His friend gives him 8 more. How many comic books does Ben have altogether?

Card 14 (Subtraction Word Problem)

A baker made 14 cupcakes. She sold 7. How many cupcakes are left?

Card 15 (Comparison)

Compare: 5 and 15

Card 16 (Addition Word Problem with Unknown)

There were 7 frogs in a pond. More frogs jumped in. Now there are 12 frogs. How many jumped in?

Card 17 (Subtraction Word Problem with Unknown)

Mom bought 17 apples. She used some for a pie. Now she has 9 apples left. How many did she use?

Card 18 (Comparison)

Compare: 18 and 8

Card 19 (Mixed Problem)

There are 6 boys and 8 girls in the class. Are there more boys or girls?

Card 20 (Mixed Problem)

Mark had 10 marbles. He lost 4. Then his brother gave him 2 more. How many marbles does Mark have now?

Answer Key: Word Problem Whiz Kids

Word Problem Worksheets - Answer Key

Section 1: Addition Stories

1. Lily has 7 red flowers. She picks 5 more yellow flowers. How many flowers does Lily have in all?

   • Numbers: 7, 5
   • Question: How many flowers does Lily have in all?
   • Operation: Addition (clue: "in all")
   • Work: 7 + 5 = 12
   • Answer: Lily has 12 flowers in all.

2. There are 9 birds sitting on a fence. 6 more birds come to join them. How many birds are on the fence altogether?

   • Numbers: 9, 6
   • Question: How many birds are on the fence altogether?
   • Operation: Addition (clue: "altogether")
   • Work: 9 + 6 = 15
   • Answer: There are 15 birds on the fence altogether.

3. Tom has 8 toy cars. His grandma gives him 4 new cars for his birthday. What is the total number of toy cars Tom has now?

   • Numbers: 8, 4
   • Question: What is the total number of toy cars Tom has now?
   • Operation: Addition (clue: "total")
   • Work: 8 + 4 = 12
   • Answer: Tom has 12 toy cars now.

4. Maria baked 11 cookies on Monday. She baked 7 more cookies on Tuesday. How many cookies did Maria bake in total?

   • Numbers: 11, 7
   • Question: How many cookies did Maria bake in total?
   • Operation: Addition (clue: "in total")
   • Work: 11 + 7 = 18
   • Answer: Maria baked 18 cookies in total.

Section 2: Subtraction Stories

1. There were 15 apples in a basket. Sarah ate 6 of the apples. How many apples are left in the basket?

   • Numbers: 15, 6
   • Question: How many apples are left in the basket?
   • Operation: Subtraction (clue: "left")
   • Work: 15 - 6 = 9
   • Answer: There are 9 apples left in the basket.

2. A tree had 13 leaves. The wind blew off 5 leaves. How many leaves are still on the tree?

   • Numbers: 13, 5
   • Question: How many leaves are still on the tree?
   • Operation: Subtraction (clue: "blew off")
   • Work: 13 - 5 = 8
   • Answer: There are 8 leaves still on the tree.

3. Sam had 18 stickers. He gave 9 stickers to his friend. How many stickers does Sam have now?

   • Numbers: 18, 9
   • Question: How many stickers does Sam have now?
   • Operation: Subtraction (clue: "gave away")
   • Work: 18 - 9 = 9
   • Answer: Sam has 9 stickers now.

4. There were 20 balloons at a party. 8 balloons popped. How many balloons are left?

   • Numbers: 20, 8
   • Question: How many balloons are left?
   • Operation: Subtraction (clue: "left")
   • Work: 20 - 8 = 12
   • Answer: There are 12 balloons left.

Section 3: Finding the Unknown

1. Maya had 8 pencils. Her friend gave her some more pencils. Now Maya has 12 pencils. How many pencils did her friend give her?

   • Equation: 8 + ? = 12
   • Work: Count on from 8 to 12 (9, 10, 11, 12 is 4) or 12 - 8 = 4
   • Answer: Her friend gave her 4 pencils.

2. There were some birds in a tree. 7 birds flew away. Now there are 5 birds left in the tree. How many birds were in the tree to start?

   • Equation: ? - 7 = 5
   • Work: Think of the inverse operation: 5 + 7 = 12
   • Answer: There were 12 birds in the tree to start.

3. David bought 9 toy cars. He already had some toy cars. Now he has 16 toy cars in total. How many toy cars did David have to start?

   • Equation: ? + 9 = 16
   • Work: Count on from 9 to 16 (10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 is 7) or 16 - 9 = 7
   • Answer: David had 7 toy cars to start.

4. A baker made 14 cupcakes. She sold some cupcakes. Now she has 6 cupcakes left. How many cupcakes did the baker sell?

   • Equation: 14 - ? = 6
   • Work: Count back from 14 to 6 (13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6 is 8) or 14 - 6 = 8
   • Answer: The baker sold 8 cupcakes.

Section 4: Comparing Sets

1. 10 > 7
2. 14 < 19
3. 12 = 12
4. 8 < 16
5. 3 < 13
6. 20 > 11

Section 5: Mixed Practice

1. There are 6 red balloons and 9 blue balloons. How many balloons are there in all?

   • Numbers: 6, 9
   • Question: How many balloons are there in all?
   • Operation: Addition
   • Work: 6 + 9 = 15
   • Answer: There are 15 balloons in all.

2. A farmer had 17 chickens. He sold 8 chickens. How many chickens does he have left?

   • Numbers: 17, 8
   • Question: How many chickens does he have left?
   • Operation: Subtraction
   • Work: 17 - 8 = 9
   • Answer: He has 9 chickens left.

3. Sarah had some crayons. She found 5 more. Now she has 13 crayons. How many crayons did Sarah start with?

   • Equation: ? + 5 = 13
   • Work: 13 - 5 = 8
   • Answer: Sarah started with 8 crayons.

4. Which number is less: 16 or 11?

   • Numbers: 16, 11
   • Question: Which is less?
   • Comparison: 11 < 16
   • Answer: 11 is less.

Word Problem Quiz - Answer Key

1. Sarah has 6 red balloons and 5 blue balloons. How many balloons does Sarah have in all?

   • Work: 6 + 5 = 11
   • Answer: 11 balloons

2. There were 14 cookies on a plate. Tom ate 7 cookies. How many cookies are left?

   • Work: 14 - 7 = 7
   • Answer: 7 cookies

3. Which symbol makes the statement true: 9 _ 15?

   • Answer: < (9 is less than 15)

4. Maria had 8 pencils. Her friend gave her some more pencils. Now Maria has 13 pencils. How many pencils did her friend give her?

   • Equation: 8 + ? = 13
   • Work: 13 - 8 = 5
   • Answer: 5 pencils

5. There were 16 birds in a tree. Some flew away. Now there are 9 birds left. How many birds flew away?

   • Equation: 16 - ? = 9
   • Work: 16 - 9 = 7
   • Answer: 7 birds

6. Which number is greater: 17 or 12?

   • Answer: 17

7. David bought 7 toy cars. He already had 6 toy cars. How many toy cars does David have in total?

   • Work: 7 + 6 = 13
   • Answer: 13 toy cars

8. A baker made 19 cupcakes. She sold 10. How many cupcakes are left?

   • Work: 19 - 10 = 9
   • Answer: 9 cupcakes

9. Which symbol makes the statement true: 11 _ 11?

   • Answer: = (11 is equal to 11)

10. I had some marbles. I found 4 more. Now I have 10 marbles. How many did I start with?

    • Equation: ? + 4 = 10
    • Work: 10 - 4 = 6
    • Answer: 6 marbles

Word Problem Mastery Test - Answer Key

1. There are 8 red apples and 7 green apples in a basket. How many apples are there in all?

   • Work: 8 + 7 = 15
   • Answer: 15 apples

2. Maria had 16 stickers. She gave 5 stickers to her friend. How many stickers does Maria have left?

   • Work: 16 - 5 = 11
   • Answer: 11 stickers

3. Which symbol makes the statement true: 12 _ 18?

   • Answer: < (12 is less than 18)

4. Tom had 9 toy cars. He got some more for his birthday. Now he has 14 toy cars. How many new toy cars did he get?

   • Equation: 9 + ? = 14
   • Work: 14 - 9 = 5
   • Answer: 5 new toy cars

5. There were 20 birds on a branch. Some flew away. Now there are 12 birds left. How many birds flew away?

   • Equation: 20 - ? = 12
   • Work: 20 - 12 = 8
   • Answer: 8 birds

6. Which number is less: 19 or 9?

   • Answer: 9

7. Lily found 11 seashells on the beach. Her brother found 7 seashells. How many seashells did they find altogether?

   • Work: 11 + 7 = 18
   • Answer: 18 seashells

8. A class has 15 students. 6 students are absent today. How many students are in class?

   • Work: 15 - 6 = 9
   • Answer: 9 students

9. Which symbol makes the statement true: 15 _ 15?

   • Answer: = (15 is equal to 15)

10. I had some books. My mom gave me 5 more. Now I have 16 books. How many books did I start with?

    • Equation: ? + 5 = 16
    • Work: 16 - 5 = 11
    • Answer: 11 books

11. There were 18 apples in a tree. Some fell off. Now there are 10 apples left. How many apples fell off?

    • Equation: 18 - ? = 10
    • Work: 18 - 10 = 8
    • Answer: 8 apples

12. Which number is greater: 4 or 14?

    • Answer: 14

13. A zoo has 6 monkeys and 8 lions. How many more lions are there than monkeys?

    • Work: 8 - 6 = 2
    • Answer: 2 more lions

14. In a garden, there are 10 red roses and 9 yellow roses. Are there more red roses or yellow roses?

    • Comparison: 10 > 9
    • Answer: Red roses

Number Ninja Problem Cards - Answer Key

1. Sarah had 5 red pens and 4 blue pens. How many pens does she have in all?

   • Work: 5 + 4 = 9
   • Answer: 9 pens

2. There were 12 cookies on a plate. Tom ate 3 cookies. How many cookies are left?

   • Work: 12 - 3 = 9
   • Answer: 9 cookies

3. Compare: 10 and 7

   • Answer: 10 > 7

4. Maria had 6 toys. Her mom gave her some more. Now she has 11 toys. How many did her mom give her?

   • Equation: 6 + ? = 11
   • Work: 11 - 6 = 5
   • Answer: 5 toys

5. There were 15 birds in a tree. Some flew away. Now there are 9 birds left. How many birds flew away?

   • Equation: 15 - ? = 9
   • Work: 15 - 9 = 6
   • Answer: 6 birds

6. Compare: 14 and 14

   • Answer: 14 = 14

7. David has 8 stickers. He earns 7 more. How many stickers does David have now?

   • Work: 8 + 7 = 15
   • Answer: 15 stickers

8. Lisa had 18 balloons. 5 balloons popped. How many balloons are left?

   • Work: 18 - 5 = 13
   • Answer: 13 balloons

9. Compare: 19 and 20

   • Answer: 19 < 20

10. I had some pencils. I found 3 more. Now I have 10 pencils. How many did I start with?

    • Equation: ? + 3 = 10
    • Work: 10 - 3 = 7
    • Answer: 7 pencils

11. There were 11 books on a shelf. Some fell off. Now there are 6 books left. How many fell off?

    • Equation: 11 - ? = 6
    • Work: 11 - 6 = 5
    • Answer: 5 books

12. Compare: 16 and 6

    • Answer: 16 > 6

13. Ben has 9 comic books. His friend gives him 8 more. How many comic books does Ben have altogether?

    • Work: 9 + 8 = 17
    • Answer: 17 comic books

14. A baker made 14 cupcakes. She sold 7. How many cupcakes are left?

    • Work: 14 - 7 = 7
    • Answer: 7 cupcakes

15. Compare: 5 and 15

    • Answer: 5 < 15

16. There are 7 frogs in a pond. More frogs jumped in. Now there are 12 frogs. How many jumped in?

    • Equation: 7 + ? = 12
    • Work: 12 - 7 = 5
    • Answer: 5 frogs

17. Mom bought 17 apples. She used some for a pie. Now she has 9 apples left. How many did she use?

    • Equation: 17 - ? = 9
    • Work: 17 - 9 = 8
    • Answer: 8 apples

18. Compare: 18 and 8

    • Answer: 18 > 8

19. There are 6 boys and 8 girls in the class. Are there more boys or girls?

    • Comparison: 8 > 6
    • Answer: More girls

20. Mark had 10 marbles. He lost 4. Then his brother gave him 2 more. How many marbles does Mark have now?

    • Work: 10 - 4 = 6, then 6 + 2 = 8
    • Answer: Mark has 8 marbles now.

Warm Up - Daily Problem

Directions: Solve the problem to get your brain ready for math! Show your work if you need to.

Warm Up 1: Comparing

Which number is bigger: 7 or 4?

Warm Up 2: Addition Fact

What is 5 + 4?

Warm Up 3: Subtraction Fact

What is 8 - 3?

Warm Up 4: Number Sense

What number comes after 7 but before 9?

Warm Up 5: Comparing

Which is bigger: 15 or 12?

Warm Up 6: Mixed Problem

If you have 6 apples and give away 2, how many are left?

Warm Up 7: Addition Fact

If you have 10 fingers and 10 toes, how many in all?

Warm Up 8: Comparing

Which is less: 19 or 11?

Warm Up 9: Subtraction Fact

If you have 7 cookies and eat 2, how many are left?

Warm Up 10: Addition Fact

What is 10 + 7?

Cool Down - Exit Ticket

Directions: Answer the question to show what you learned today! Put your ticket in the basket on your way out.

Session 1 Cool Down: Identify Key Information

Read the word problem below. Underline the important numbers and circle the question.

"There are 6 birds in a tree. 2 birds fly away. How many birds are left?"

Session 2 Cool Down: Solve an Addition Problem

Solve this word problem:

"Mia has 5 red apples and 3 green apples. How many apples does she have in all?"







Answer:

Session 3 Cool Down: Solve a Subtraction Problem

Solve this word problem:

"David had 10 cookies. He ate 4 cookies. How many cookies does David have left?"







Answer:

Session 4 Cool Down: Identify Unknown

Write the equation for this problem. Is the unknown part of an addition or subtraction problem?

"I had 7 toys. I lost some. Now I have 4. How many did I lose?"







Equation:



Operation Type:

Session 5 Cool Down: Compare Numbers

Compare these two numbers using >, <, or =:

14 _ 18

Session 6 Cool Down: Identify Clue Words

Write down one word that tells you to ADD and one word that tells you to SUBTRACT.






Add Word:



Subtract Word:

Session 7 Cool Down: Reflect on Game

Tell me one thing you learned or practiced during the Number Ninja Game today.

Session 8 Cool Down: New Learning

Write down one new thing you learned about comparing numbers or solving word problems today.

Session 9 Cool Down: Strategy Used

Tell me one strategy you used on the quiz that helped you today.

Session 10 Cool Down: Personal Accomplishment

Write down one thing you are proud of accomplishing during our word problem unit.

Comparing Sets Activity Cards

Directions: Print, cut out, and laminate these cards for the Comparing Sets Activity. Each card has two sets or numbers to compare.

Card 1

Set A: 🍎🍎🍎🍎🍎
Set B: 🍌🍌🍌

Card 2

Set A: 🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈
Set B: 🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈

Card 3

Compare: 10 and 10

Card 4

Set A: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Set B: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Card 5

Compare: 13 and 9

Card 6

Set A: 🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗
Set B: 🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗

Card 7

Compare: 17 and 12

Card 8

Set A: 🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋
Set B: 🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋

Card 9

Compare: 5 and 15

Card 10

Set A: 🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪
Set B: 🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪

Card 11

Compare: 18 and 20

Card 12

Set A: ✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️
Set B: ✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️

Card 13

Compare: 11 and 16

Card 14

Set A: 🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻
Set B: 🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻

Card 15

Compare: 19 and 19

Card 16

Set A: ⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️
Set B: ⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️

Card 17

Compare: 14 and 8

Card 18

Set A: 🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬
Set B: 🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬🍬

Card 19

Compare: 6 and 16

Card 20

Set A: 📚📚📚
Set B: 📚📚📚📚📚📚