Math Words Detective Challenge
Becoming detectives of mathematical language Finding clues in addition and subtraction word problems Year 2 Mathematics Investigation
What is a Math Words Detective?
A detective looks for clues Math detectives look for special words These words tell us what to do with numbers We use our detective skills to solve problems
Detective Training: Spot the Clue Words
Listen carefully to each word problem Raise your hand when you hear a clue word Tell us if it means 'add' or 'take away' Let's practice together!
Addition Detective Words
MORE - 'I want more cookies' PLUS - 'Two plus three' ALTOGETHER - 'How many altogether?' TOTAL - 'What is the total?' ADD - 'Add these numbers'
Addition Word Hunt
Sam has 4 stickers. His friend gives him 2 more stickers. How many stickers does Sam have altogether? Find the addition clue words! Circle them with your finger What should we do - add or subtract?
Subtraction Detective Words
TAKE AWAY - 'Take away 3 apples' LEFT - 'How many are left?' FEWER - 'There are fewer now' LOSE - 'I lose 2 marbles' SUBTRACT - 'Subtract these numbers'
Subtraction Word Hunt
Emma had 8 balloons. 3 balloons flew away. How many balloons are left? Find the subtraction clue words! Point to them What should we do - add or subtract?
Detective Challenge Question
Listen to this word problem: There are 6 birds in a tree. 4 more birds join them. How many birds are there altogether? What clue words do you hear? Should we add or subtract?
Detective's Clue Word Chart
{"left":"Addition Clues: MORE, PLUS, ALTOGETHER, TOTAL, ADD","right":"Subtraction Clues: TAKE AWAY, LEFT, FEWER, LOSE, SUBTRACT"}
Final Detective Mission
Work with a partner Read each word problem carefully Hunt for the clue words Decide: add or subtract? Solve the problem together! Share your detective findings!