MathematicsFreePrintable

Real-World Math Expressions

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Real-World Math Expressions worksheet preview

Real-World Math Expressions

Students solving math problems

🔍 Part 1: Finding Keywords and Numbers

I can identify key information and operation words in story problems.

1. Read this problem and highlight the important numbers and keywords:

Maria has 15 stickers. She gives away 6 stickers to her friends. How many stickers does Maria have left?

Write the one-step expression: _______________

2. Circle the operation words that suggest ADDITION:

gives away

buys more

loses

gets

total

3. Circle the operation words that suggest SUBTRACTION:

spends

earns

left

finds

remaining

✏️ Part 2: Creating Math Expressions

I can translate simple real-world situations into one-step mathematical expressions.

4. Read each problem. Write the correct one-step expression.

Jake scored 8 points in the first quarter and 12 points in the second quarter. How many total points did he score?

Expression: _______________

Sarah had $25. She bought a book for $9. How much money does she have left?

Expression: _______________

A pizza has 12 slices. The family ate 7 slices. How many slices remain?

Expression: _______________

5. Choose the correct expression for this problem:

The temperature was 45°F in the morning. It rose 18°F by afternoon. What was the afternoon temperature?

45 - 18

45 + 18

18 - 45

45 × 18

🎯 Part 3: Explain Your Thinking

I can explain my reasoning when choosing operations to represent word problems.

6. Look at this problem: "Carlos runs 3 miles on Monday and 5 miles on Tuesday. How many miles did he run in total?"

Expression: _______________

Explain why you chose this operation:

7. Create your own real-world story problem that uses subtraction. Write it below:

What expression would solve your problem? _______________

8. Extension Challenge: Write a story problem that could be solved with EITHER addition OR subtraction, depending on what question you ask.

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