Solve Word Problems Using the Four Operations

In this activity, we will work on word problems using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Before starting to solve a word problem, we must check which operation is needed.

Let's take a look at a word problem together. 

Sam has 12 stickers.

James has three times as many as Jake.

How many does James have?

This question is a multiplication word problem. 

We need to triple the number of stickers Jake has, to find out how many Jane has. 

To triple a number, we multiply it by 3.

12 × 3 = 36

James has 36 stickers. 

Now let's try an example question together.

Example

My grandfather is three times my age.

He is 63 years old.

How old am I?

Answer

This is a division problem.

63 ÷ 3 = 21

I am 21 years old.

Now you're ready to try some questions by yourself.