Word Problems - Adding Three Numbers

Solving real-life problems by adding three numbers together!

What Are Three-Number Addition Word Problems?

Word problems help us use math in everyday life!
Sometimes we need to add more than two numbers to solve a problem. Today we'll practice adding three numbers together to find answers to fun stories and situations.

How to Solve Three-Number Addition Problems

1️⃣ Read carefully - Find the three numbers in the story

2️⃣ Write them down - List the numbers you need to add

3️⃣ Add them up - Start with the first two, then add the third

Let's Practice Together!

Example 1: Fruit Basket

Emma has 3 apples, her brother gives her 2 more apples, and then her mom adds 4 apples to her basket. How many apples does Emma have now?

Let's add them up: 3 (Emma's apples) + 2 (brother's apples) + 4 (mom's apples) = 9 apples!

3 + 2 = 5, then 5 + 4 = 9

Example 2: Toy Cars

Liam has 5 red cars, 3 blue cars, and 2 green cars. How many toy cars does Liam have in total?

Let's count them: 5 (red) + 3 (blue) + 2 (green) = 10 toy cars!

5 + 3 = 8, then 8 + 2 = 10

Parent Tips 🌟

  • Use real objects - Have your child physically count and add items like toys, snacks, or coins to make the concept concrete.
  • Make it a game - Create simple word problems about your child's favorite things (animals, superheroes, etc.) to keep them engaged.
  • Break it down - Encourage your child to add two numbers first, then add the third number to that sum.

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